Our reviews on various bike components for bikepacking and all-terrain riding. We love trying out new stuff that impacts the ride. Dig in.

Reviews on bike components for bikepacking and all-terrain riding.

All-Terrain Bike Components

Components

I've used many different tents over the last few years, often choosing which tent I'm carrying based on how far the ride, and what season of the year. I've got an ultralight <a href="https://www.tarptent.com/" target="_blank">TarpTent</a> for longer, lightweight summer missions, and a more hardy tent from Australian company <a href="https://www.mont.com.au/" target="_blank">Mont</a>, for solo winter adventures. But when my wife started planning a three week cycling tour in Iceland, we realised that neither of these tents were quite fit for purpose.

The Iceland tour created a fairly specific set of criteria, quite different to my usual style of bike adventure. With the promise of strong winds and potential for long rainy days, we decided that ample room for storing gear out of the elements was a greater requirement than usual.

After much internet browsing and chatting with cycling friends, we finally landed on the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2. 

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#### The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

We chose the Copper Spur HV UL2 for a fair few reasons, the main ones focussing on size, weight, space, cost, and performance.

Size and weight: The Copper Spur HV UL2 has a packed size of 7" x 13.5" and weighs just 3lb 8oz. This relatively small pack away size and weight compare extremely well with its competitors. You can easily stow the tent into a handlebar roll, or saddlebag, with room to spare for stashing other gear. External webbing on the bag means you can also directly mount the tent to your handlebars, or rack, using straps, forgoing the need for a dedicated bikepacking bag. Shorter pole lengths help fit the tent between narrower handlebars - also useful for occupying less space in a bag.

Space: We opted for the 2 person version of the Copper Spur for a couple of reasons. Firstly, the extra internal space offers more room to store bikepacking gear in the event of rain, guaranteeing it stays drier than being just stored in the vestibule. Secondly, the extra space makes for a more pleasant hideout if you're stuck inside for a long rainy afternoon at camp (something we expected could happen regularly in Iceland). Finally, we chose the 2 person version in the hope that we might one day get away for a cycling trip together in the future.

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Cost: At around $600, the Copper Spur HV UL2 might be towards the higher end of the market. But if you're someone that values weight saving and quality materials, then I reckon it's worth the money.

Performance: If you like reading about technical fabrics, I'll let you head over to the <a href="https://www.bigagnes.com/products/copper-spur-hv-ul2" target="_blank">Big Agnes website</a> and read your fill about what's been used to make the Copper Spur. Let me just say that it's waterproof and tough. I've been using it for around six months, in all sorts of conditions and it's kept me nice and dry. 

#### Extra Features

I've already mentioned the shorter poles and attachment straps on the Copper Spur HV UL2, but I reckon they're worth another mention as they're key features of the design in this tent. These thoughtful design aspects make it easy to pack the tent on the bike. Using a couple of voile straps, I carried the tent on my handlebars on a recent two-day bikepacking trip along the coast. Having the tent packed separately makes it handy at camp, as you can erect your tent immediately, without having to take other gear off the bike first.

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While this packability is great, it's not my favourite feature of the tent. Ultimately, my favourite design aspect of the tent is the dual vestibules and doors on either side of the tent. The internal doors offer a large opening to get in and out of the tent, and the external doors open in several ways. There's nothing better than opening both external zippers and pinning back the vestibules to create wide-open views from the tent. As I love camping in beautiful locations (who doesn't) this design makes the most of the views - especially good for slow mornings in bed or while brewing up that morning camp coffee.

Other cool bikepacking-specific features are the helmet storage straps on the inner fly, drying loops on the external fly, and extra large internal pockets for stashing gear. This internal storage is great for stuffing puffy jackets, clothes, electronics, etc. The external vestibules are plenty large enough for storing gear and are easily accessed.

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#### Final Word

Overall I've been super impressed with the Copper Spur HV UL2 and it's quickly become a first choice for bikepacking trips. Sure, if I'm planning to travel extra light on a solo mission, I'll choose a different tent (I'd probably take the one-person version if I owned it), but when I've got a little extra room, or I'm planning a mellower pace, or I just fancy a bit of extra luxury at camp, then I'll be sure to strap on the Copper Spur HV UL2 to my bikepacking rig.

Get it <a href="https://www.bigagnes.com/products/copper-spur-hv-ul2" target="_blank">here</a>.

While planning for an Icelandic adventure, Mattie and his wife opted for the ultralight Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2. Read Mattie's impressions of the tent and its bikepacking friendly features.

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Bikepacking Tent Review

While planning for an Icelandic adventure, Mattie and his wife opted for the ultralight <a href="https://www.bigagnes.com/products/copper-spur-hv-ul2" target="_blank">Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2</a>. Read Mattie's impressions of the tent and its bikepacking friendly features. Let's go.

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Bikepacking Tent Review

Gearing up for a bikepacking trip is always about finding a balance between size, weight, and usefulness for all packable items. I can't tell you how many times I've stood in the store debating on what size of fuel canister I should buy. Big for the fuel cost savings, or small because you are only going out for a few nights. Do I have enough? Do I have too much? Maybe you're like me and only the small size fits inside your ultra-compact cookset and anything else means something must be left behind to make room.

At any given time, my gear shelf has an assortment of canisters with an undetermined amount of fuel left in each. I constantly tell myself I need to weigh each canister to calculate how much fuel remains. I need to use these all up, but when? Each time I pack for a quick trip, I don't bother to bring one, because they are big and bulky. If I only had a way to consolidate all these partially used canisters. This would save me a few bucks and prevent some from having to be recycled at the end of each season. 

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Thankfully, Arizona-based scout leader, <a href="https://www.flipfuel.co/pages/about" target="_blank">Eric Flottmann</a> was also tired of leaving half-full canisters at home. He paired up with fellow Arizona entrepreneur, <a href="https://www.flipfuel.co/pages/about" target="_blank">Frank Healy</a> to come up with a device to solve this problem. Enter FlipFuel. Similar transfer valves are around, but no one has refined a product to this degree or of this quality. Their hashtag <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/dontpackahalfie/" target="_blank">#DontPackaHalfie</a> says it all.

Simply put, this nifty little 35-gram gadget allows fuel to safely flow from one canister to another. It's a nice machined block of aluminum in red and white anodizing, a brass-looking vent button, and plastic threaded caps to protect the recessed fittings and has small o-rings inside to ensure a good seal. The folding valve handle is similar to the ones found on camping stoves. Mine came neatly packaged with simple-to-understand instructions and two cute stickers.

The secret of this device is a simple physics trick by creating a pressure difference using temperature. As adults, we should all know that heating air expands it. You probably learned this lesson the first time you reheated that plastic container of leftover pasta in the microwave and had to clean up the brutal aftermath. By using temperature we can create a pressure difference between canisters thus making the fuel transfer from the warm one to the cold one. 

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A common type of stove that cyclists use is called a “canister stove” because it runs on pressurized canisters of Iso-Pro fuel. This fuel is usually an 80/20 blend of isobutane and propane that burns clean and delivers superior performance throughout the life of the canister and in colder temperatures.

#### The Rules

Using the FlipFuel is very easy, but there are a few key things you need to know and prepare before all this flipping happens. You can transfer fuel between any brand of fuel canister, but there are some simple things to keep in mind: 1. Do not overfill a canister 2. Only use canisters that contain the same kind of fuel 3. Only transfer fuel in a well-ventilated area and 4. Properly dispose of empty canisters. 

To ensure that you don't overfill the canister, you must know what the canister weight should be when full. It's as simple as looking at the side of the tank. Most brands come in three standard sizes: small, medium, and large. Be aware that there are two weights shown on each can. The NET is the empty canister and the GROSS is the weight of the can full of fuel. The gross weight is what you need when topping up your canisters with the FlipFuel.

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It's easiest to have an accurate kitchen digital scale on hand. These can be bought for as little as $10-15 (USD) at local discount stores. The "floating" method shown on the side of the containers is far from accurate and not recommended for this procedure. TIP: The FlipFuel is 35 grams. Add this to the gross weight of the canister you are filling. For example, the medium canister is 374g full, and 409g with the FlipFuel attached. Now let's begin flipping some fuel around.

#### How it Works

Place the receiving canister that you want to fill on ice or in a freezer, and the source canister near a heat source. 5-10 min should be sufficient but remember it's safer to freeze one canister more than overheat the other. Do not place it on direct heat, obviously. We are not trying to pressurize the source tank, just create a reasonable pressure difference between the two. One in the freezer and one in the sunshine or on a warm window sill is all you need.

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Ensure the FlipFuel valve is closed and the dust caps are off and place the two canisters side-by-side. The order in which the canisters are attached is up to you. Screw FlipFuel onto the warm canister to the "OUT" fitting. Flip the cold canister upside down and screw it onto the top which is the "IN" fitting. Flip the entire assembly over so the cold canister is on the table. The fuel transfer rate will depend on the size of the canisters and how full each canister is. Knowing how long to leave the valve open will take a little experimenting. Start by only opening the valve for maybe 5-10 sec. Remove the cold canister and weigh it on your scale. Do a little math from your notes to see how much was transferred during that time. In practice, I found it best to remove the supply can, and weigh the can you're filling with the FlipFuel still attached, this is why I mentioned adding 35 grams to your gross canister weight.

Repeat until you reach the weight as indicated on the canister. You won't get every drop of fuel out of the source canister, but you'll be close. I had enough to boil enough water for a cup of afternoon tea while transferring a few other canisters. Maybe you could do the same? Inquire at your local recycler about how to dispose of empty canisters. For safety reasons, most recyclers require them to be punctured, releasing the remaining pressure and off-gas any fumes before disposal.

#### Ugh. I Overfilled.

Filling small canisters from a large one will only take a short time and the risk of overfilling is high. If you have overfilled a canister, just use the built-in FlipFuel bleeder to vent some fuel off. Nice. I shouldn't have to say this, but you need to be in a well-ventilated area. Re-weigh the canister to ensure you're good. I doubt a canister would rupture, but over-full and over-pressured may result in your stove acting up for a while, or so I've read... I haven't tested this in real life.

#### Wrapping Up

While I <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/dontpackahalfie/" target="_blank">#DontPackaHalfie</a> that often, I have a collection of them and the FlipFuel is a great little device to consolidate all my halfies I don't dare take for fear of running out of fuel. It will also be more economical and environmentally responsible by purchasing large containers and only keeping a few smaller ones on hand for trips. This way I can ensure I always have a full can of fuel in my cookset including some room for my precious coffee grinder. It's a well-designed affordable device at $35 (USD) that every camper should have in their kit. Get it <a href="https://www.flipfuel.co/" target="_blank">here</a>.

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The FlipFuel is a great little gadget that helps consolidate partially used canisters of fuel and save a few bucks.

FlipFuel Review

The <a href="https://www.flipfuel.co/" target="_blank">FlipFuel</a> is a great little gadget that helps consolidate partially used canisters of fuel and save a few bucks. We have been seeing FlipFuel all over social media and other outdoor websites, but wanted to give it a shot for ourselves. Let's Go.

FlipFuel Review: Flipping Great

Last fall, I had the pleasure of testing the <a href="/gear/apparel/7mesh-northwoods-windshell">Northwoods Windshell</a> and have to say, I'm completely smitten with it. I wear it on a daily basis and I might be starting this review from a place of bias. Proceed with caution. The Northwoods may only be a simple sheet of nylon sure, but it's a thoughtfully designed peice of nylon that has impressed me and makes me smile. I have been doing a lot of trail running lately and the Northwoods shell has been my go-to for keeping me warm and protected from the elements while running as well as cycling. Not only is it lightweight and packable, it keeps the warmth in effectively. However, when the winter turns up the elements I need something that's waterproof and touch warmer, which is essential when trail-riding (or running) on wintery Vancouver Island.

Enter the Copilot jacket. The Copilot sits at the more affordable end of the 7Mesh jacket spectrum and was created for bikepackers and trail-riders who cycle in changing conditions. Designed and engineered in Squamish, British Columbia, the Copilot boasts a ton of features and has that opinionated style that we've come to expect from 7Mesh. If it's anything like the Northwoods, we should all be smiling. But let's take a deeper look.

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#### Design &amp; Features

The Copilot's hood is one of it's standout features, with its ability to fit over any bike helmet. The Northwoods also was capable of this feature which I didn't seem to need during the summer months and thought was a gimmick. But trust me, once you need it, you'll be glad it's there. Being able to put your hood up and over your helmet to keep out rain on cold days is a godsend. I ended up 'hooding' my helmet a bunch of times over the past few months. However, I do have one criticism of the hood (like the Northwoods as well), there's no way to stow it away. But still, the over-the-helmet hood is a convenient feature for those who ride in mixed conditions.

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Another stand-out feature of the Copilot are its vibrant color options. The Copilot is available in three color combos: Elk, Hinterland, and simple Black. I went for the (brown and yellow) Elk colors, hoping to add some life to my all-black wardrobe. The lower rear hem is a sunny yellow, which was fine until I remembered I don't ride with a rear fender. Now, the yellow is pretty dirty and doesn't seem like it will fully come out. The Elk and Hinterland colors seem new to the 7Mesh palette but somehow come across as slightly under-saturated to this aging designer. This is definitely not an accident and seems to be a very intentional choice from the 7Mesh design team. Maybe the colors will grow on me.

The latest iteration of the Copilot changes the location of its only pocket from the side to the rear. The rear pocket may be the only pocket on the jacket, but it's a great size, capable of holding a surprising amount of gear. I was able to fit two power bars and my front and rear rechargeable Lezyne lights with ease. The top entry design of the pocket is also a thoughtful touch, making it slightly harder to access on the bike but less likely for items to fall out. A fair trade and a smart design decision in my opinion.

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The crown jewel feature of the Copilot lies in its packability, making it the perfect jacket for bikepacking. At just 253g (thanks to GORE-TEX Paclite), the jacket is so light that it's hardly noticeable when folded or tucked away in a bike bag. The 7Mesh Stash System, allows riders to fold the jacket into the rear pocket and strap it to a bike frame or seatpost. At first, the Stash System may also seem like a gimmick, but once you actually need it, you'll appreciate its convenience. It eliminates the need for any additional bags on your bike and saves you from stopping somewhere to shed a layer. The small Stash System buckles may take a bit of finessing to get anchored correctly, but once they are, the whole unit stays secure. Check out this <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CnE2Rzdp0s4/" target="_blank">Instagram reel</a> to see the System in action.

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#### Fit &amp; Comfort

I ended up trying a medium Copilot, even though I'm still not sure if it's the right size. At 5'10" and 170 pounds, I am right in the middle of small and medium on 7Mesh's sizing chart. When I first tried on the Northwoods last year, I also thought it felt a bit big but over time I got used to the sizing. Both the Northwoods and Copilot are designed a bit larger and baggier than most slim cycling gear. If I have the chance to try another 7Mesh jacket, I may opt for a small just to see if it fits better. This ultimately comes down to personal preference for a rider. Do you like slim and trim or a bit larger and baggier? If you prefer the former, I suggest going down one size. 

The Copilot is equipped with drawcords for the hood and hem for a customized fit, but as a self-proclaimed "dullard," I find the drawcords a bit unintuitive. Despite their sleek, minimal design, the hidden drawcords can be finicky to use and make it difficult to get the perfect cinch. Nevertheless, the Copilot's drawcords serve their purpose and offer a customizable fit for any rider.

#### Construction, Performance &amp; Weather Protection

Like all things 7Mesh, the beauty of the Copilot lies in its quality. The jacket is beyond well-constructed; it's rough, tough, and built to last. One look at the welded seams, from the arms and body to the rear pocket and hood, and you can tell that this jacket was made with precision and care. The GORE-TEX Paclite material delivers everything you want in weather protection: strong, waterproof, and breathable. Over the past few months, I've put it to the test while mountain and gravel biking and have found it to perform exceptionally well. It never succumbs to heavy rain or strong winds. Unlike other GORE-TEX knockoff materials, it doesn't get sweat-soaked inside, providing both comfort and protection. Nice.

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#### What We Think

I find myself in a strange position reviewing the 7Mesh Copilot. The other day I explained to my wife that the better something is, the easier it is to be critical of it. And that is exactly what has happened with the Copilot. Despite its near-perfection, I find myself thoughtfully critical because I want to do this jacket justice. But let me tell you, the Copilot is damn good. I try not to be hyperbolic in my reviews, but I cannot help but gush over the Copilot and the Northwoods. With these two jackets in the closet, I am covered for any biking expedition on our small island, no matter the season or weather. 

The Copilot is no joke. It's durable, made with quality materials, and looks fantastic. Get it <a href="https://7mesh.com/products/copilot-jacket-1" target="_blank">here</a> for $350 CAD / $280 USD.

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Discover the 7Mesh Copilot jacket in this comprehensive review. From its standout hood to its rear pocket and packable design, the Copilot is a thoughtfully crafted jacket ready for any weather.

7Mesh Copilot Shell Review

After falling in love with the <a href="https://7mesh.com/" target="_blank">7Mesh</a> Northwoods Windshell, we finally got our hands on the more weather-proof <a href="https://7mesh.com/products/copilot-jacket-1" target="_blank">Copilot</a>. Barry has been testing the shell over the past few months while mountain biking and gravel riding on wet and windy Vancouver Island. Let's Go.

7Mesh Copilot Shell: Elementally Awesome

Our second annual bag makers list is loaded with independent bikepacking bag makers from the US, Canada, Scotland, Australia, Austria, Chile, and Ecuador.

The 28 Best Bikepacking Bag Makers For 2023

Our second annual bag makers list is packed with 28 custom makers from around the world. This year's lineup is loaded with independent bikepacking bag makers from the US, Canada, Scotland, Australia, Austria, Chile, and Ecuador. Dig In.

28 Bikepacking Bag Makers For 2023

To say that I've been sitting on writing a review of the eeSilk seat post for a while, would be an understatement. Over 17,000 km if you must ask. We have all been there, by mid-ride your backside becomes unbearable and you still have miles of potholed gravel roads to go. Comfort is the key to happiness, and I wanted to be able to sit down after a long day in the saddle to enjoy a beverage with a smile on my face. In the end, I settled on the Cane Creek eeSilk for a number of reasons and it has been the right choice for me. What if your ride could be buttery smooth? Nay, I say silk-ee smooth...

Few of us realize how much Cane Creek knows about the suspension game, or how long they've been around. Some of us may remember back in 1992 when the threadless headset revolutionized bike design. Yes, that was Cane Creek Cycling Components.

#### Some History

Let's backpedal for a little history lesson. In the 1930s legendary Japanese bike manufacturer Dia-Compe was born. 40 years later, amid middle-east conflicts and oil embargoes, many countries experienced a resurgence of cycling for basic transportation and recreation, especially in North America. The need for bikes doubled in only a few short years and in 1975 Dia-Compe built a cutting-edge factory in Fletcher, North Carolina on the edge of… Cane Creek. In the 80s, they were leading the way in developing the best BMX &amp; MTB brakes in the market. We all remember Rock Shox releasing the first production suspension fork. Who do you think was manufacturing those shocks? You guessed it, Dia-Compe!

However, by 1992, there was a difference in views between the US and Japanese divisions, which led to the creation of a more independent Dia-Compe USA division. That same year, they released the <a href="https://cyclingtips.com/2017/08/origins-how-the-aheadset-threadless-headset-changed-bikes-forever/" target="_blank">AheadSet</a> and singlehandedly steered the entire bike industry from quill stems toward threadless headsets.

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Can you remember the next big thing to turn the MTB scene on its ear? Disc brakes. Yeah, Dia-Compe USA gave those to us in 1994. And the following year they made the AD-4 rear shock under the brand name: Cane Creek. Cane Creek Cycling Components was born and was soon leading the way in developing revolutionary components and even turned a few heads when they converted to an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) business model in the late 90s.

They then added the <a href="https://canecreek.com/introducing-the-all-new-thudbuster" target="_blank">Thudbuster</a> seat post to their lineup and got serious about suspension when they partnered with <a href="https://www.ohlins.com/products/mountainbike/" target="_blank">Öhlins</a>, the premium moto-suspension company from Sweden to apply their twin-tube dampener technology to MTB shocks. In 2014, the new DB Inline rear shock was spec'd on thousands of Specialized mountain bikes, however the shock had reliability issues. As a result, Cane Creek's bid to capture the OEM market went downhill quickly and 2015 was no better with loss of sales sending them on a rough ride down to the bottom when in 2016 the business almost flattened-out for good.

However, the innovative Cane Creek employees rallied and cranked out new products at an astonishing rate. To be exact, 38 in three years when they previously only released one per year. It's no coincidence this is when renowned cycling components designer, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=459529368126475" target="_blank">Craig Edwards</a> joined forces with Cane Creek and brought his game-changing eeBrake to market. The <a href="https://canecreek.com/the-ee-story/" target="_blank">ee-line</a> of products was born from this design relationship. Cane Creek now averages about a dozen new products each year including products like Kitsuma, Helm, bottom brackets, Hellbender headset (which I run on my bikes), eeBrakes, eeWings (Ti-cranks), the all-new Thudbusters, and the eeSilk seat posts.

As the gravel scene began to explode so did the solutions for minimal-weight suspension designs and we saw several suspension seat posts appear with various designs, weights, pros, and cons. Cane Creek took their Thudbuster and refined the design into a sub-300-gram road post with 20mm vertical compliance and able to support riders up to 250 lbs. At that time when I bought my eeSilk it was only available in 27.2 road diameter which required a step down shim in my MTB frame. Now Cane Creek offers a variety of sizes across their entire seat post lines in both alloy and carbon. 

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#### A Look At The eeSilk

The eeSilk and new eeSilk+ offer 20mm and 30mm travel respectively and are based on their proven parallelogram linkage that keeps the seat angle consistent while it takes the edge of all those bumpy little things we run over. Constructed out of machined aluminum linkage arms, anodized aluminum axles, and titanium mounting hardware the carbon version weighs in at only 295 grams, and 345 grams for the alloy post, which is only slightly more that most standard seatposts. For me, the eeSilk seat post has done over 17,000 km with almost no issues.... almost.

My post came assembled and fitted with the medium #5 elastomer, along with two more (#3 and #7) for you to adjust to your weight or riding desires. You can purchase the super soft #1 or extra firm #9 elastomers separately if required. Also included is an oddly shaped cone tool which is used during reassembly to help put the pin back into the linkage bushings. All maintenance can be done with the post still on the bike. You can watch Cane Creek's video on how to swap elastomers and use the cone tool <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMFNKq_AxoI" target="_blank">here</a>.

The seat clamp design is said to be "tool-free" with an ergonomic thumb wheel on the front seat clamp to loosen and slide the bottom plate aside to slip the seat rails out. In practice, I didn't find that to be the case. Once leveled and tightened I could not really loosen the thumb wheel unless I really weighted the nose of my saddle to reduce tension on the front bolt. I also discovered the results of this during my first bikepacking race that I rode with aero bars. When positioned on the nose of the saddle, the front bolt loosened itself off in a short time. To remedy this, I had to really tighten down the rear bolt. So much so, I eventually stripped it, replacing it with a titanium M5 x 0.8 x 33mm. 

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I've heard complaints about the linkage becoming squeaky, however, I only experienced this once, and a couple drops of chain lube at each bushing instantly fixed the problem.

#### The Ride

I enjoy all-day rides rambling down little used dirt roads, but I'm no spring chicken either. I've been beaten up over the years and this type of riding puts a strain on my body. By the end of the day, I tense up in anticipation of any rough section approaching which just makes things worse. The eeSilk takes just enough edge off to smooth out the day and arrive home relatively pain-free. With the eeSilk, I don't adjust myself on the saddle as much and find I stay seated longer with less fatigue. Where I instantly feel the eeSilk doing its job is on the various rail trestles and elevated boardwalks I ride. The constant rattling ride on the uneven planks almost disappears as the elastomer soaks up all the vibrations.

I tend to sit and spin rather than stand to grind, so a comfortable, efficient seated position is key. I have ridden a few spring-design suspension posts and they all introduced a little pedaling bob, that annoying up and down feeling when pedaling that reduces power to the pedals. Full suspension mountain bikes can have really bad 'pedal bob' when climbing. This is not the case with eeSilk and was one of the aspects I enjoy. The softer ride is very subtle but effective. If I wanted a buttery smooth ride, I would be on a full-suspension cross-country bike.

#### Maintenance

Because disassembly can be done so easily with the seat on, I tend to pop the linking open regularly about four times a year to just give it light lube with a Teflon rubber-friendly spray and a few drops of chain wax on the bushings. This is usually when I discover if I've had any small tire punctures that have gone unnoticed by the amount of sealant sprayed up under my seat.

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One other thing to keep an eye on is the small silver retaining bolt on the linkage axle. It comes prepped with a thread locker, but if you remove it, I suggest adding a drop of medium-strength Loctite. Others have reported that it has come out while riding and left them with their seat flopping all over, however it has not happened to me in almost 20,000km.

If you use bikepacking seat bags, I would also suggest wrapping some protective tape where the bag strap attaches (see my wear marks). On long trips, any grit &amp; grime that gets between the strap and post will wear off the anodized finish or worse, weaken the post if left unchecked.

#### Conclusion

If you're looking for something to take the edge off when riding your nice stiff gravel bike or want to improve all-day comfort with minimal weight then the Cane Creek eeSilk could be just for you. The cost is comparable to most other performance seat posts on the market at $320 USD for the carbon stick, or $220 USD for the alloy version. I've been abusing mine in rough, mucky, wet conditions for almost 20,000km and it's still silk-ee smooth. Now, when I reach my 2nd bakery stop of the day, I can still sit down with a smile on my face. Get it <a href="https://canecreek.com/product/eesilk/" target="_blank">here</a>.

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Rob has been riding with the Cane Creek eeSilk suspension seatpost for over 17,000km. Here he goes deep on his impressions of the post while providing a fantastic lesson on some serious cycling history.

Cane Creek eeSilk Long-Term Review

<a href="https://canecreek.com/" target="_blank">Cane Creek</a> is a component manufacturer that requires little introduction for most cyclists. However, do you know how Cane Creek became a company? Rob has been riding with the Cane Creek <a href="https://canecreek.com/product/eesilk/" target="_blank">eeSilk suspension seatpost</a> for over 17,000km. Here he goes deep on his impressions of the post while providing a fantastic lesson on some serious cycling history. Let's go.

Years ago, I cycled and wild-camped through Japan. We finished our days in various local hot springs called Onsen. One night, I entered the onsen and felt as if I had been zapped with a cattle prod. Yes, there was an electric current running through the water! My mind screamed! Later, I found that this type of hot spring is called "Denki Buro” or electric bath, designed to relax muscles. I saluted the fearlessness of the Japanese in using this deadly combination of electricity and water to relax. This experience developed my trust in Japanese innovation and its ability to create new things.

When Velo Orange announced they would be the exclusive dealer of Growtac Equal brakes, the mechanical disc brakes made in Japan, I was immediately interested. I was impressed by the Equal design, colors, cable-actuated system, and overall innovation. It sounded like a disc brake I could easily fall in love with and potentially replace my <a href="https://trpcycling.com/product/spyre-2/" target="_blank">TRP Spyres</a> with<a href="https://bike.shimano.com/en-EU/product/component/ultegra-6800/ST-6800.html" target="_blank"> Shimano Ultegra 6800 brifters</a>. I'll say it, I love mechanical brakes. They are easy to understand and maintain. All you need is a spare set of inner cables and brake pads and you're ready for any adventure.

Sorry to all of you hydraulic brake lovers out there but Growtac Equal brakes are purposely built mechanical brakes. As you may know, mechanical disc brakes use a cable-pulling system while the hydraulic ones use fluid to transfer braking forces. There are three main parts to a disc brake system: the brake lever, the transmission, and the brake caliper. The braking power of a hydraulic system is indeed higher than the mechanical type due to the loss of tension in the wiring system to the rotor pinching force. So why did Growtac insist on developing and releasing mechanical brakes? There's a story behind that. Let's have a look!

#### The Growtac Story

It's not really debatable that the move from rim to disc brakes has made a huge impact on the industry. Most complete bicycles are now equipped with hydraulic disc brakes with the belief that they provide stronger braking power. However, Growtac didn't accept this and wanted to create a brake that provided users the freedom to choose a brake that best suits their style of riding. But who actually is Growtac? Growtac is a Japanese manufacturer founded in Tokyo in 2002 that develops and sells mechanical disc brakes, indoor cycling trainers, apparel, and all sorts of bicycle accessories. They identified three vital challenges of mechanical disc brakes to design around: lower braking power, heavier weights, and simply, a poor image in the market. This led to the Equal Disc brake which claimed to be a new generation of mechanical disc brakes, overcoming the cons of existing mechanical systems. 

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#### Unboxing &amp; Installation

The packaging of the Equal brakes impressed me—simple, neat, and premium like many things in and from Japan. The package includes two disc brake calipers with brake pads, two special outer casing sets, a warranty policy, a user manual, and installation instructions. I tested the post-mount version so instructions include how to install the hard outer casing. However, if you ordered a flat-mount version, the package will include one adapter set for a flat mount (front, 140mm/160mm), and one mounting bolt set for a flat mount (rear). 

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Installing the Equal brakes is similar to other mechanical calipers. However, there seem to be more steps and more instructions to follow due to the special features of the brake. It might take longer to install for non-mechanic cyclists. Growtac has provided the detailed installation guide in this <a href="https://growtac.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/mdbc_manual_en_20210709.pdf" target="_blank">link</a>. Though the installation is detailed, I had both concerns and positive comments during the installation.

My first concern is that you must pay full attention to the outer casing installation because it affects braking power. Two types of outer casings come with the brake set: soft and hard (compressionless) outer casings. For those using a drop bar, use the soft outer casing for areas with curves or tight bends, and use the hard one for the part where the brake wiring is straight like a downtube area. For flat bar users, it is recommended to use only the hard outer casing, but if the rebound is too strong with unfavorable effects on handling, use the soft option the same as the drop bar. The difficulties for me appeared when I had to connect soft and hard outer casings with the outer connector. The connector can come off during assembly or usage and you need to secure the connector with plastic tape or electrical insulating tape.

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The feature I loved most during installation was the caliper center marker. It makes the disc rotor centering simple as ABC. You just tighten both sides of the brake pad adjustment screws to let both pads out until the center marker is in the middle of the disc rotor to finish the centering process. That's it! The brake-leverage gauge and Danger Zone marking (the triangle with the exclamation mark) do help during the installation as well. They help us quickly find the proper cable pull of brake levers and provide effortless adjustments along your ride!

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#### Let's Ride

The Equals were tested on a 7-day bikepacking trip under various conditions, from dusty roads to muddy tracks with numerous steep descents.

#### Full-Stop Breaking Power
While soaring down the hills with my weight over my seat bag, the Equals never “screamed” as you would expect from new brakes. Without a doubt, the Equals provide finer control and stronger braking power than my previous TRP Spyre. With Equal brakes, I can stop how I want on any terrain. From my perspective, the combination of soft and hard outer cables allows for better power transfer. Also, the unique vertical cam structure for better cable routing also plays a major role in the outstanding braking power.

##### Reliable Brake-Leverage Adjustment
This unique adjustment function allows you to set the Equal brakes to suit your preferences, usage, weight, and grip strength. Unlike other calipers, the brake-leverage gauge and Danger Zone marking are on the caliper's body to adjust the brake feeling that suits you. There is no doubt about when to adjust the pads. Immediately adjust the pad clearance when the gauge is near the Danger Zone to avoid brake failure.

##### No Sweat Brake Pad Adjustment
For those who find adjusting brake pads on mechanical calipers complicated, you will definitely love this feature on the Equal brakes. Two adjusting screws located on the inner and outer sides of the pads allow for a quick adjustment whenever you need it. Despite this ease of adjustment, be careful to loosen the rubber plugs covering the screws as they fall off quite easily. Yup, I already lost one which might affect it when water leaks in the system :(

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##### High-Quality Brake Pads
The provided resin brake pads give the right brake feelings, no screaming, and stand up to wear and tear. Mine are still looking good after a few trips. The pads are manufactured by <a href="http://www.vesrah.tokyo/product-line/brake-pads/" target="_blank">Vesrah</a>, a Japanese Manufacturer that specializes in producing high-quality after-market brake pads. The pads can also be replaced with Shimano pads such as K04 (metal), K03 (resin), and K05S-RX (successor to K03) as informed by Growtac. We tried replacing them with <a href="https://bike.shimano.com/en-EU/product/service-upgradeparts/xtr-m9100/WP-IBPK05TIRXA.html" target="_blank">Shimano K05Ti-RX Resin Pads</a> which worked great.

##### A Lightweight Mechanical Disc Brake
The Growtac Equal caliper weighs only 136 grams while my TRP Spyre weighs 154 grams. Growtac claims that the Equal Brakes are the currently world's lightest mechanical disc brakes using ultra-high-strength <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duralumin" target="_blank">duralumin</a> (age-hardenable aluminum alloy) as the material and machine for most of the caliper parts.

##### Disassembly &amp; Maintenance
Growtac also mentioned that the Equal brakes can be disassembled and maintained leading to longer-lasting stability and performance. I still haven't had a chance to disassemble the calipers as they are brand new. Once I get a chance, I will update you with a detailed review.

##### Short-Pull Brake Levers Only
Bad news for you mountain bikers with long-pull brake levers, the Equals are currently only available for short-pull levers only. If you are using a flat bar with long-pull levers and want to try the Equals out, switch the levers to <a href="https://www.paulcomp.com/shop/components/brake-levers/short-pull/canti-lever/" target="_blank">Paul Components Canti Lever</a> or Shimano road brake levers for a flat bar.

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#### Wrapping Up

After spending many days screaming oohs and aahs descending long steep routes, the Growtac Equal Brakes have become my new trusted braking companions. The braking force is perfect and the maintenance is super easy and understandable for all users. The quality materials, brake-leverage adjustment, special outer casings, and no sweat pad adjustment show that Growtac has put all focus on the user's needs. I would strongly recommend the Equal brakes to all riders who often cycle in remote areas or plan long tours. The necessary parts are easy to source and you can maintain the brakes on your own, from anywhere. The brake also suits those who love colorful bike decorations. 

On the Velo Orange website, Growtac Equal brakes are $350 USD for the flat mount and $390 USD for the post mount version. With this price, the Equal Brakes are in between Paul Components and TRP Spyre. If you are more interested in more color options, lighter weight, and additional features, the Equal Brakes will serve you well. You can get them both on the <a href="https://velo-orange.com/collections/growtac" target="_blank">Velo Orange</a> and <a href="https://growtac.com/en/products/mdcs/" target="_blank">Growtac</a> websites. With Growtac Equal brakes, I'm now saying "goodbye" to all stress and saying "hello" with a happy face to all technical descents! 

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Growtac is a manufacturer from Tokyo that applies Japanese-level craftsmanship to all of its products including its new brake calipers called The Equal.

Growtac Equal Brake Review

<a href="https://growtac.com/en/" target="_blank">Growtac</a> is a manufacturer from Tokyo that applies Japanese-level craftsmanship to all its products including its new brake calipers called <a href="https://growtac.com/en/products/mdcs/" target="_blank">The Equal</a>. Like most things from Japan, these brakes are beautifully engineered and easy on the eyes. Immu has been testing the Equals over the past few months in Thailand to see how they function. Roll on.

I never leave on a ride without a mini-tool, a mini-pump, and a decent tire lever. For the past few years, I have used the <a href="https://www.crankbrothers.com/products/m20" target="_blank">Crankbrothers m20</a> (the 20 stands for 20 tools!) which has saved my butt more than a few times. Personally, I find it one of the best all-in-one tools on the market with a hard-to-beat value-for-money ratio. It comes with almost every possible tool one could need: all sorts of hex and Torx bits, a chain breaker, spoke wrenches, a rotor alignment tool, and more. Having a lot of experience with such a maximalist tool, I was quite curious about the new Pebble from PNW and if it could fit my needs.

PNW is a fairly young company from… you probably have already guessed, America's Pacific Northwest… Seattle to be exact. They may be young, but PNW has quickly made a name for itself as a solid manufacturer of quality mountain and gravel bike components. I first came across them while searching for a new drop bar. I was looking for something wider than a standard bar with a shallow drop and finally ended up getting <a href="https://www.pnwcomponents.ca/products/the-coast-handlebar" target="_blank">PNW's Coast Bar</a> which I highly recommend. They offer a range of products including dropper posts, handlebars, stems, apparel, accessories, and the aforementioned Pebble tool.

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#### First Impressions

Honestly, I was quite skeptical about the Pebble. I have had my Crankbrothers m20 for a long time now and have become quite comfortable with having all 20 tools with me while riding. The Pebble and my m20 are on opposite sides of the bike tool spectrum. While the Pebble can be considered a minimal tool the m20 is something for the over-prepared rider. When the package arrived at my door, I quickly opened it and found a small, well-designed cardboard box about the size of a box of matches in it. And within this box was, the blood orange colored Pebble. I was immediately impressed by its size, color, and design

#### Design &amp; Features

Taste might be subjective but like most people on earth, I am a sucker for any well-designed product. And the Pebble definitely checks this box. Beyond the Pebble's minimal size and weight, it just feels solid in your hand which is usually a good signal of high quality. It has no sharp edges and nothing rattles. The Pebble is available in four lovely colors: Blood Orange, Golden Daze Bronze, Blackout Black, and Fruit Snacks (aka purple). The Pebble clearly is a thing of beauty. All its bits offer the same impression of quality with hyper-close manufacturing tolerances. Stunning.

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I am a mechanical engineer by trade and can't help but get caught up in the details of how products like the Pebble are created. So, what do small and light actually mean in numbers? The PNW mini tool measures: L 65mm, W 21mm, H 15mm and weighs just 51g. A tool so small it will fit any pocket or bag, and so light you will hardly notice it's even there. It features 6 tools: 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, and 6mm hex and a T25 Torx which is hidden under a Dynaplug tool. That may not seem like much compared to other “mini” tools that often come with 20 or more. It seems the Pebble was designed as a minimalist tool with modern bikes in mind.

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The stand-out feature on the Pebble is by far, the Dynaplug tool. To be fair, I have yet to try a Dynaplug but there are many, many reviews out there claiming it to be the best solution for plugging tubeless tires. I “unfortunately” did not have a puncture during the test period so we will need to assume that Dynaplugs are awesome. And after watching <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1mY-bfw2JQ" target="_blank">this video</a>, I would have to say that assumption is safe.

#### Handling &amp; Performance

The Pebble doesn't show any noticeable flex under load, however, to be fair, I have to mention that smaller screws and bolts do not require a lot of torque. Most of the smaller hex screws in the range of 3-6mm require about 3 to 10Nm. On the other hand, the 8mm hex screws used on cranks ask for something around 40Nm, so a tool with an 8mm hex should handle greater forces and therefore might need more solid construction. Should you need a little more pressure to open or tighten a screw, the smooth pebble-like edges ensure the tool is easy on your hands—a godsend if you are doing a quick trailside fix. Due to its compact design, it is hard or impossible to reach some of the screws, for example, the ones for the adapter of my front brake. However, this is not a unique problem to the Pebble and an issue that many bike tools face. Another small challenge I noticed, is that it can be tricky to unfold the individual bits due to the Pebble's size and rounded parts. A challenge sure, but not a show-stopper by any means.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/pnwpebble/tool-on-canvas-bag.jpg", "alt": "tool on canvas bag", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/pnwpebble/pebbles.jpg", "alt": "ltool on the rocks", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/pnwpebble/pnw-pebble-size.jpg", "alt": "pnw pebble size", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/pnwpebble/pebble-with-strap.jpg", "alt": "pebble with strap", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Wrapping Up

The Pebble is a lovely designed tool but can it replace something like my beloved Crankbrothers m20? Well, that all depends on your expectations. If you are looking for the 'one tool to rule them all', then the Pebble might not be for you as that's obviously not what it's intended to be. For example, I still run square taper brackets on some of my bikes which require an 8mm hex key. And then there is the lack of a chain tool. 

I will admit that the Pebble has changed how I look at bike tools. Just maybe… I do not need a big bulky all-in-one tool for every ride. The Pebble has me covered for a ride on my local trails and groads and it is so small and light that I can put it in any of my pockets and not be distracted by it.

The Pebble might not be the cheapest tool out there (Dynaplugs are rather expensive on their own) but for its quality, it seems like a sweet deal. Also, a good multi-tool should last you a long time and PNW offers a lifetime warranty making the deal even sweeter.

Get it <a href="https://www.pnwcomponents.com/products/pebble-tool" target="_blank">here</a> for $37 USD.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/pnwpebble/pnw-light-logo.jpg", "alt": "pnw light logo", "width": "1600", "height" :"855"}}} />

In September, PNW released a minimal yet beautifully designed bike tool dubbed the Pebble. Gerald has been testing the Pebble in Austria to see how it measures up against his beloved Crankbrothers tool. 

PNW Pebble Tool Review

In September of last year, Seattle-based <a href="https://www.pnwcomponents.com/" target="_blank">PNW</a> released a minimal yet beautifully designed bike tool dubbed <a href="https://www.pnwcomponents.com/products/pebble-tool" target="_blank">the Pebble</a>. The Pebble caught everyone's attention with its built-in Dynaplug bit and hot colors. Over the past few months, Gerald has been testing the Pebble in Austria to see how it measures up against his beloved Crankbrothers tool.

Take a glance at enough bikepacking rigs and you will likely come across Voile straps. They can be seen securing anything in place from dry bags on rear racks to bottles of wine on a frame (yes, I have seen it). It is safe to say that Voile straps are some of the most popular bikepacking products on the market. Certain products such as the <a href="https://kingcage.com/products/many-things-cage" target="_blank">King Cage Many Things Cage</a>, for example, are designed specifically to be used with Voile Straps. While somewhat new to the bikepacking scene, these straps have been on the market for three decades. Based out of Salt Lake City, Utah, they were originally created for binding skis together. Now, Voile straps have flooded the bikepacking market as one of the more sought after pieces of gear. The newer Rack Strap was designed specifically for bikepacking front and rear racks. In contrast, the original strap used a simpler, less specialized design. My first experience using the original Voile straps was on a multi-month bikepacking trip in 2019 <a href="https://bikepacking.com/plog/the-call-of-the-west/" target="_blank">across the USA</a>.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/voilerack/taras-bike.jpg", "alt": "taras bike", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},]},] }} />

#### Learning From My Mistakes

When I started bike touring in 2011, with my traditional four pannier setup, I had never heard of Voile straps. Using some sort of tie down method was essential for securing the load on my back rack which at the time was a 31L Ortlieb Rack Pack. Cheap bungee chords were my go-to. Available at almost any hardware store, they were affordable and readily available. After years of being on the road, these bungees did the job, but I noticed that they easily stretched out over time, creating a not-so-secure setup. I ended up switching to nylon <a href="https://www.coghlans.com/gear-straps-60-7-2-pack-8460" target="_blank">Coghlans Arno straps</a>. These performed well for some time, until I really began to embrace riding on rougher terrain - more bikepacking style trips. In 2019, I was riding a particularly rough section of the <a href="https://bikepackingroots.org/project/western-wildlands-route/" target="_blank">Western Wildlands route</a> through Northern Utah using these straps to secure a water bladder on my rear rack. When I reached the next town, I suddenly noticed, to my horror, that my dry sack carrying my 10L water bladder had fallen off of the back. One of my straps was missing and the other was dragging on the ground. I was frustrated with my own negligence. If I was on a remote desert stretch, I could have been in some real trouble. A few days later, In Park City, Utah I purchased a new bladder along with some 32” Voile straps of the original design. Across the rough and remote deserts of Utah and Arizona, they performed flawlessly.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/voilerack/voile-and-earthpak.jpg", "alt": "voile and earthpak", "width": "1200", "height" :"1800"},{"src": "/products/voilerack/earthpak-and-brooks.jpg", "alt": "earthpak and brooks", "width": "1200", "height" :"1800"},{"src": "/products/voilerack/earthpak.jpg", "alt": "earthpak", "width": "1200", "height" :"1800"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/voilerack/logo.jpg", "alt": "logo", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},{"src": "/products/voilerack/strap-catcher.jpg", "alt": "strap catcher", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},]},] }} />

They held everything securely in place, with no stretching whatsoever. I knew I would never use bungees or cheap nylon compression straps ever again.

#### A Renewed Piece of Mind

Voile Rack straps are made from a very tough polyurethane. They are semi-elastic and come with equally tough nylon rack mounts on each end.

The mounts snap into place on the rack, with one of them having a buckle attachment for the strap. You simply pull tightly on the strap and insert the buckle into one of the many holes. The excess strap is held in place with a simple keeper that can slide up and down the strap. The material has a UV-resistant additive, providing that extra protection against those long hours to months in the intense sun. The original Voile strap was a simpler design without the added rack mounts. When the Rack Strap was later introduced, in my opinion, the company made a great product even greater. Before I was even asked to do a review of the product, I already had previous experience using them on a 2022 trip on the <a href="https://bikepacking.com/routes/socal-desert-ramble/" target="_blank">So-Cal Desert Ramble</a> and <a href="https://bikepacking.com/routes/new-mexico-off-road-runner/" target="_blank">New Mexico Off-road Runner</a> bikepacking routes.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/voilerack/rack-clamp.jpg", "alt": "rack clamp", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},]},] }} />

The Rack Straps come with a choice of either 10mm or 13mm hooks attached, depending on your rack tubing size. Both options are available in 20”, 25” or 32” lengths in orange or black. I used the 25” version on my 2022 bikepacking trip. I had two straps to secure an Earth Pak 10L dry bag and a Hydrapak expedition 8L water bladder. I found the 25” inch length to be sufficient with a completely full bladder and excess food for a three day stretch without resupply. For longer or more remote stretches, when more rack storage is needed, consider the 32” length. So, what sets the Rack Straps apart from the original design? Convenience. Simply, convenience.

#### A Worthy Upgrade?

The hooks snap easily onto the rack tubing, creating a secure, anti-slip fitting. With the original strap, you would have to reach under the rack to figure out an optimal position to prevent the straps from sliding around. With the new mounting system, the straps stay in one place and accessing extra water on a desert stretch has never been easier. Simply loosen the top, slide out the gear, then reposition, re-torque and go. No more fiddling around underneath the rack. No bikepacker will complain about a faster, more convenient setup, even if we aren't in a huge rush to begin with. Aside from the new mounting hooks, not much has changed from the original design. They use the same ultra tough polyurethane material and nylon buckles that are non-marring, non-conductive and non- reflective. This time, I didn't need to worry about being absent minded and losing a water bladder somewhere in a California desert wash.

> No bikepacker will complain about a faster, more convenient setup, even if we aren't in a huge rush to begin with.

During my six weeks of riding on rough tracks in California and New Mexico, the Rack Straps stood up to the task. I only had to reposition one of the hooks once, on a very long and rough descent from Big Bear into San Bernardino. My rear rack was damaged during a flight, resulting in some bent tubing. One of the hooks was mounted to the warped section and had started to come off. I repositioned it and didn't have any issues after that. Even though Voile Rack Straps are very trustworthy on even the roughest descents, I still occasionally check my gear out of habit and for peace of mind. After using cheaper and in my opinion, inferior methods to secure my bikepacking loads I simply can't go back after using Voile Rack Straps.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/voilerack/ready-to-go.jpg", "alt": "ready to go", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/voilerack/voile-logo.jpg", "alt": "voile logo", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},{"src": "/products/voilerack/rear-setup.jpg", "alt": "rear setup", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},{"src": "/products/voilerack/bladder-on-rack.jpg", "alt": "bladder on rack", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},]},] }} />

For both the 10mm and 13mm versions, the Rack Straps retail at $17.00 USD for the 20” version and $17.50, $18.00 for the 25” and 32” versions. This is a steep increase from $7.50 for the original 25” strap without the added rack clips. So, are the rack straps worth it for an extra $10 USD over the original? For me, yes, but I don't believe that all bike packers will necessarily agree.

As previously stated, the only real difference between the two is convenience - they are slightly more user friendly. I used the original straps for over 1000 rough desert miles on the Western Wildlands route with no issues whatsoever. They held my water bladder and 3+ days of food just as securely in place as the Rack Straps. So, a $10 upgrade per strap may seem excessive for something that performs just as well, but is slightly easier (and faster) to use. For me, these little wins make a difference over months and thousands of miles. But for some, the upgrade may just seem like an unnecessary expense. 

#### A Favorite Piece of Kit

The Voile Rack straps have become an integral part of my bikepacking kit and I have no plans to use anything else to secure my loads. I still carry some extras of the original design in varying lengths. In the event of a bottle cage breaking or even pannier attachment failure, they are always handy to have for an emergency fix. In my mind, they are really a “do-it-all” strap. After several multi-month trips, my straps are still in perfect condition and I still expect them to last for years to come. I have always traveled with a rear rack and as long as I have one, I will use Voile Rack Straps. 

Get them <a href="https://www.voile.com/voile-straps-25-inch-rack-strap-10mm.html" target="_blank">here</a>.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/voilerack/straps-and-bladder.jpg", "alt": "straps and bladder", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"}}} />

Tara recounts her experience with Voile straps and gives the rack-specific strap a test.

Voile Rack Straps Review

In 2019, <a href="https://www.voile.com/" target="_blank">Voile</a> released an upgrade of its popular rubber straps designed specifically for securing gear to a rack. In this review, Tara recounts her experience with Voile straps on a trip across the United States and gives the rack-specific model a test. Let's go.

A list of carbon wheel Makers to get you started in the land of composite wheels.

28 Carbon Wheel Makers For Gravel And Mountain Biking

If you are looking to improve the performance of your bike, the easiest place to start is with the wheels. Chances are if you're thinking about upgrading your wheelset you probably are considering carbon.

28 Carbon Wheel Makers For Gravel & Mountain Biking

Gravel cycling lends itself to gathering bags and hoarding gear. Get into bikepacking and you'll be overrun with countless packing solutions. Bar bags, frame bags, bags that fit under saddles, top tubes, forks… the list goes on and on. I've bought more bags now than I'd care to admit and use only a very small fraction of them. But what about the Chip—one of Camel Chop's frame bag offerings? Where does that fit it?

#### Who Are Camel Chops?

Scotland has more than its fair share of rain and it's no surprise that Camel Chops pride themselves on making robust and waterproof kit. In fact, their entire line-up is weather resistant and put through the test in Aberdeenshire. As a family-run business with an in-house manufacturing team, they're able to provide custom bag-making services alongside offering their standard stock. Since 2020, they've been offering a selection of bags that make for excellent company on loads of different rides. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/camelchopschip/chip-on-gravel-bike.jpg", "alt": "chip on gravel bike", "width": "1800", "height" :"1201"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/camelchopschip/lews-rig.jpg", "alt": "lews rig", "width": "1201", "height" :"1800"},{"src": "/products/camelchopschip/on-the-bike.jpg", "alt": "on the bike", "width": "1201", "height" :"1800"},{"src": "/products/camelchopschip/camel-chops-logo.jpg", "alt": "camel chops logo", "width": "1201", "height" :"1800"},]},] }} />

#### Sizing

The Chip is a handy, minimal frame bag for those who want to carry items off their body when heading out on a ride where they will have a chance to stock up along the way. Cafe riders will rejoice at the space to be able to throw a GoPro, spare layer, keys and inner tube. Shove a bit of cash in the internal pocket and away you go knowing you've got all you need in the usually unused space at the front of the frame.

At 300mm long and 170mm at its highest, the Chip is what I would call a ¼ frame bag. Small enough to take up only the very front of the frame triangle however not really large enough to take a whole lot of gear. Depending on how you pack, the Chip is not what I would count as a day pack. While testing, the Chip was not quite big enough for my tools, food, and a spare layer. Camel Chops happen to make a range of bags and in hindsight, their <a href="https://www.camelchopsgear.co.uk/product-page/the-camelchops-uneven-steven-half-frame-bag" target="_blank">Uneven Steven</a> might have been a better size fit.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/camelchopschip/through-bars.jpg", "alt": "through bars", "width": "1201", "height" :"1800"},{"src": "/products/camelchopschip/chip-open.jpg", "alt": "chip open", "width": "1201", "height" :"1800"},]},] }} />

#### Weather Resistant

That said, the Chip is certainly weather resistant. It's not a mentioned feature on the Camel Chops product page but from personal use I've found it stands up well to a decent downpour. After an incredibly misty ride, the Chip didn't even begin to dampen on the inside. The weather-resistant zip certainly goes some way to dealing with moisture, but the weather-proof internal lining is surely the key to it being so robust. Throw in the internal pocket and I'd be confident in saying that your phone and cash would be safe during all but the very worst downpours.

Whilst we talk about construction, the material used (which I suspect is Cordura 1000D as used in most of the rest of their lineup) is bombproof. Scuffs and scrapes are shrugged off readily and gives the bag its form factor. There's some give in this, as the bag isn't reinforced internally by any wiring (a good decision in my mind) so it can be shoved into most frames. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/camelchopschip/open-frame-bag.jpg", "alt": "open frame bag", "width": "1800", "height" :"1201"}}} />

The fastening of the bag by five velcro loops meant that I couldn't make it budge on any of my rides—no matter how hard I tried. I'd initially thought that the lack of length, and therefore the lack of rear loop attaching to the seat stay, would mean some wiggling underneath me. However, it simply didn't happen. Over rough ground, the Camel Chops Chip sat strong and in place. There was an additional elastic fastener and toggle which came attached to the front of the bag, however, I couldn't really find a suitable use for this and simply removed it.

Whilst most people would be happy to know the bag is waterproof and doesn't move, I always try to look for more. For me, the beauty is in the minute details that separate a good bag from a great bit of kit. The Camel Chops Chip sits in the great category. Reflective detailing towards the front of the bag is subtle but doubles up as a zip cover to ensure there's no risk of rain dripping into a zip accidentally left open. Low-impact branding isn't in your face and sits with the premium design overall. It's the zip toggles that stand out to me though. Rubberised at the ends, they offer extra grip in the wet and I've found that it's made the world of difference where I've not once missed opening the bag.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/camelchopschip/zip-grip-closed.jpg", "alt": "zip grip closed", "width": "1201", "height" :"1800"},{"src": "/products/camelchopschip/zip-grip.jpg", "alt": "zip grip", "width": "1201", "height" :"1800"},]},] }} />

Evaluating the look of something is always subjective but I really like the subtle olive of the Chip's design. But, unlike other manufacturers, the aesthetics are never going to be a problem with Camel Chops as they're able to offer custom colourways to suit any need. They've got a mix of standard stock with some designs being really subtle, whilst others are totally off the wall. Whatever you want, it seems they've got it… and if they don't, well, give them a message and they'll put it together for you.

#### Wrapping Up

At £49, Camel Chops are offering a robust, beautifully finished bit of kit at a very reasonable price. There's a real feeling that Camel Chops have done some serious testing in the wet Scottish weather, where they're based, to make sure their kit functions as good as it possibly can in the wet. The Chip isn't the bag for someone looking for plenty of room to take on a multi-day bikepacking trip. But it's undoubtedly a solid bag if you're looking to store the essentials and want to keep them dry when the weather turns sour. One thing's for sure, the Chip won't be that small bag you bought, used once, and then left in the bottom of the cupboard.

Get it <a href="https://www.camelchopsgear.co.uk/product-page/camelchops-chip-front-frame-bag" target="_blank">here</a>.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/camelchopschip/lew-goes-for-a-snack.jpg", "alt": "lew goes for a snack", "width": "1800", "height" :"1201"}}} />

Lew tests a smaller Camel Chops bag known as the Chip and gets to know what it's good for, and what it's not.

Camel Chops Chip Frame Bag Review

<a href="https://www.camelchopsgear.co.uk" target="_blank">Camel Chops</a> is a family-run bike bag operation from Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Since 2020, they have been creating jazzy custom bags as well as a regular line-up. In this review, Lew takes out one of the Camel Chops' smaller offerings called the <a href="https://www.camelchopsgear.co.uk/product-page/camelchops-chip-front-frame-bag" target="_blank">Chip Frame Bag</a> and gets to know what it's good for, and what it's not. Let's go.

Vincent Van Gogh once said, "What is done in love is done well". I doubt Van Gogh was referring to mountain bike companies at the time, but the expression does apply to Berm Cycle from Singapore. Berm is a titanium frame, component, and apparel brand that put all its love and passion into its products. They build great stuff and share them with the world at reasonable prices.

Before departing on an adventure ride throughout the Chiang Mai area, we received and installed the <a href="https://www.bermcycle.com/product/route-handlebar/" target="_blank">Ti Route Loop Handlebar</a> with its soulmate, the <a href="https://www.bermcycle.com/product/route-loop-bar-bag/" target="_blank">Route Loop Bar Bag</a>. We knew this trip would be a heavy ride and a perfect chance to have the bar and bag undergo some hardcore testing. Both were installed on a <a href="https://www.somafab.com/archives/product/valhallen" target="_blank">Soma Valhallen</a> hardtail with 27.5 x 2.8'' tires and fully equipped with all bikepacking accoutrements. 

The look of the Route Loop Handlebar might be unfamiliar to some riders, however, this style of multi-hand position bar has been on the market for many years. Bars like the <a href="https://jonesbikes.com/jones-h-bar-butted-loop-aluminum/" target="_blank">Jones H-Bar</a> and <a href="https://surlybikes.com/parts/moloko_bar" target="_blank">Surly's Moloko bar</a> have been building legions of bikepacking fans all over the world. Is the only advantage to the ability to place your hands in multiple spots to find a comfortable riding position? Come and have a closer look with me and let's find out.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/bermroute/hand-positions.jpg", "alt": "hand positions", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/bermroute/yay.jpg", "alt": "Yay BERM CYCLES", "width": "1200", "height" :"1800"},{"src": "/products/bermroute/weighing-in.jpg", "alt": "weighing in", "width": "1200", "height" :"1800"},{"src": "/products/bermroute/route-logo.jpg", "alt": "route logo", "width": "1200", "height" :"1800"},{"src": "/products/bermroute/berm-logo.jpg", "alt": "berm logo", "width": "1200", "height" :"1800"},]},] }} />

#### Installation

When installing any set of handlebars make sure to select the proper stem size to ensure optimal comfort and reach. Also, always test a new bar and stem before heading out on an adventure. The Route Loop Bar lacks any installation guide marks so we needed to find the center of the bar first. We simply measured the bar's length, divided it in half, and made a small mark to line up through our stem clamp. This may seem trivial but having alignment marks always helps set the bar position quickly.

We found that installing the bars at a 10-15° tilt provided the most comfort for our hands and wrists. We also added a pair of <a href="https://www.jensonusa.com/Esi-Chunky-32mm-Grips-Silver-120-Links-11-Speed" target="_blank">Jenson ESI 8.25″ Extra Chunky</a> shock-absorbing grips to the bars and then wrapped the loop and crossbar sections with tape to allow for a more stretched or aerodynamic riding position. We did, however, leave a gap in the tape on the front loop for additional gear.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/bermroute/break-time.jpg", "alt": "break time", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"}}} />

#### Specs &amp; Features

The Route Loop Bar is made of aircraft-grade titanium and weighs in at only around 510g with a length of 710mm, a 31.8mm diameter stem clamp, and a standard 22.2mm diameter grip. A key characteristic of the Route Loop Bar is its 45° sweep. 45° may seem extreme if you come from a much straighter bar. However, after a bit of an adjustment period, we found that 45° really does allow for a great mix of control and comfort. Together with the loop part and crossbar section, not only do you have a lot of options for placing and relaxing your hands but also for mounting additional bags and gear.

Placing your hands at the end of the grips will take you to the most upright position. This position is perfect to relax your hands, wrists, chest, shoulder, and back. Some riders might prefer this position when riding rough trails or cranking up steep hills as you can take full advantage of better control from the widest part of the bar. Rest your forearms across the crossbar and the loop when you want to go faster in an aero position, fight with the headwinds, or just move your dull hands during an all-day ride.

#### Route Loop Bar Impressions

Beyond the advantages of multi-hand positioning, I give the Route Loop Bar 10 out of 10 points for being crafted out of titanium—not something you come across every day. Compared to other Chromoly or aluminum options this bar is lighter by about 100-200g which plays a significant role in controlling and handling. The 710mm width also feels comfortable and stable which helps with improved control while crossing obstacles and descending rough terrain.

Our positive impressions of the bar are pretty clear-cut when riding fully loaded. Our part of the world has some very steep and rugged climbs which often lead to hike-a-biking. In these moments, you feel every gram of weight on the bike and are happy to shave it off where you can. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/bermroute/immu-on-bike.jpg", "alt": "immu on bike", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},{"src": "/products/bermroute/after-the-climb.jpg", "alt": "after the climb", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/bermroute/muddy-tracks.jpg", "alt": "muddy tracks", "width": "1200", "height" :"1800"},{"src": "/products/bermroute/near-field.jpg", "alt": "near field", "width": "1200", "height" :"1800"},]},] }} />

Let's not miss out on the smashing quality of the Ti Route Loop Bar; it is stiff, durable, and will definitely stand up well to corrosion. The bar should be high on any adventure cyclist list. Its ability to handle various conditions from paved, unpaved, single track, buffalo trails, river crossing, and different weather conditions makes it a real contender.

#### Introducing The Route Loop Bar Bag

The optional Route Loop Bar Bag is a custom-made bag designed specifically for use with the Route Loop Bar. It's handmade in Singapore as a collaboration between Berm Cycle and <a href="https://andybikepackingbags.com/" target="_blank">Andy Bikepacking Bags</a>. The bag is made of military-grade CORDURA 1000D with a waterproof zipper, top transparent zip cover to store your map, industrial strength Velcro, and strap; the ideal choice for making loop spaces functional. The Route Loop Bar Bag is available in three colors; black, multicam camo, and woodland camo. We received the bag in woodland camo that perfectly matched our frame bag. The black and camo would go well with most of the adventure bikes but I would also love to see more colorful versions from them. 

A quick note here: do not overpack the Route Loop Bar Bag. Overpacking can cause stress and break the waterproof zipper mechanism. This happened to us (luckily after our trip was over) filling the bag with snacks! The zipper separated from its rail but was easily fixed. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/bermroute/ready-for-bikepacking.jpg", "alt": "lready for bikepacking", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/bermroute/profile.jpg", "alt": "profile", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},{"src": "/products/bermroute/route-bag.jpg", "alt": "route bag", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},{"src": "/products/bermroute/contents-of-bag.jpg", "alt": "contents of bag", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"},]},] }} />

#### Wrapping Up

The Ti Route Loop Bar is a fantastic lightweight, multi-hand position bar. The titanium makes the bar stiff, durable, and resistant to corrosion. Adventure riders would love this bar and could benefit from its features on any multi-day, hardcore bikepacking trip. The weight savings of 200g really does make for better performance in controlling and handling a loaded bike. Bear in mind, the key to the most comfortable position for your hands and wrists is selecting the perfect stem length, bar lifting degrees, and bar grips. 

The current price of Route Loop Bar is one of the more affordable titanium options on the market at $300 USD. Bundled with the Route Loop Bar Bag, the whole unit comes out to $400. Get it <a href="https://www.bermcycle.com/product/route-handlebar/" target="_blank">here</a>!

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/bermroute/immu-with-route-bars.jpg", "alt": "immu with route bars", "width": "1800", "height" :"1200"}}} />

Earlier this year, Berm Cycles introduced a bar aimed at the adventure biking crowd called the Route Loop bar. Immu had the chance to test the bar and bag combo out on a multi-day trip through the mountains near Chiang Mai.

Berm Cycles Titanium Route Loop Bar Review

Since 2020, <a href="https://www.bermcycle.com" target="_blank">Berm Cycles</a> has been creating titanium components and apparel for high-flying MTBers from its headquarters in Singapore. Earlier this year, they introduced a bar aimed at the adventure biking crowd called <a href="https://www.bermcycle.com/product/route-handlebar/" target="_blank">the Route Loop bar</a>—a titanium multi-hand position bar that features an optional bike bag. Immu had the chance to test the bar and bag combo out on a multi-day trip through the mountains near Chiang Mai. Let's go.

Berm Cycles Ti Route Loop Bar Review

Austere Manufacturing creates beautiful cam-lock gear straps from their HQ in Kitsap, Washington. We were lucky to try them out in bold new colors.

Austere Manufacturing Cam Strap Review

<a href="https://austeremanufacturing.com/" target="_blank">Austere Manufacturing</a> creates next-level gear straps in Kitsap, Washington. Headed by craftsman Uriel Eisen, Austere Manufacturing's straps are 100% made in the USA and designed for performance and ease of use. We were lucky to try the straps out in some bold new colors. Let's go.

So bikepacking is a thing. Due to the tremendous popularity of adventure cycling and self-supported ultra races, there are so many companies making so many types of bags: frame bags, seat bags, rack bags, handlebar bags, and cockpit bags, both off-the-shelf and custom. Choosing the right bag seems endless and overwhelming. First, you have to decide on which type of bag you want and then the hunt starts for the right manufacturer. You can usually never go wrong with the bigger brands but with so many new, younger makers you might find something that will serve your needs better. A lot of smaller makers are more nimble and have come up with new and interesting solutions to bikepacking problems.

One of those newer companies is <a href="https://76projects.com/" target="_blank">76 Projects</a> from the U.K. A team of industrial designers making products that, in their own words, “solve issues that the mass market products do not address”. One of those issues is that modern frames, especially carbon frames, often lack the possibility to mount racks.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/assbag/bag-in-plants.jpg", "alt": "bag in plants", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

Over the last few months, I have been testing their A.S.S. top tube bag. Yes, you read that correctly and A.S.S. stands for Anti Strap System and here at Bike Gear Database, we always appreciate a bit of sass ;) Instead of strapping to your frame or bolting in like most bags, the A.S.S. system uses a quick-release slider and ring to clip around the headset. This system is supposed to make for a sturdier connection that prevents the bag from rubbing on your frame. 

#### The Details

The A.S.S. Top Tube bag comes in a gray, welded 600d fabric with DWR treatment and a pink inner liner for increased visibility. It offers two outer side pockets, an internal mesh pocket and a phone retainer, a cable port and utilizes the proven YKK Aquaguard zip. With a size of 50x110x220 [mm], it offers approximately 1 L of volume or enough to store your phone, sunglasses, gloves, and an energy bar. Most of 76 Projects' hardware (aka plastic parts) is made in-house using an industrial 3D printer.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/assbag/full-kit.jpg", "alt": "full kit", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/assbag/bag-with-tag.jpg", "alt": "bag with tag", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/assbag/ass-mount.jpg", "alt": "ass mount", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/assbag/with-nuts.jpg", "alt": "with nuts", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Installation

The A.S.S. bag mount attaches in two ways: you can either bolt it into your frame bosses or, what I did, use the 3M double-sided foam tape to stick it directly to your top tube. If you are like me and worry about your frame's paint, a stick-on system offers a nice solution. In addition to the bag, you get all the accessories needed: 4 flat-headed hex screws, 2 plastic nuts, 2 extra screws, 1 clip-slider set, 1 spacer-clip set, pre-injection swabs, and the aforementioned double-sided foam tape.

All the bags I have used so far use velcro or voile straps to attach to the frame, so I thought it would be good to follow the <a href="https://76projects.com/pages/instructions" target="_blank">the instruction manual</a> to get started. The instructions seemed more like an overview of what I needed to do rather than a step-by-step guide. I would have preferred a more structured or numbered guide like the ones from IKEA. Therefore it took a few minutes longer to figure out a mistake-free way to mount the bag. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/assbag/ass-bag-and-mount.jpg", "alt": "ass bag and mount", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

Here is my approach. First, mount all bag sliders and the L-shaped clip to the bag. I found the installation of the hex nuts for the L-clip a bit fiddly but my hands are not the smallest. After the clips are installed, I would recommend fitting the ring clip to the stem. The ring clip is meant to replace a standard 10mm stem spacer. Be careful when reinstalling the stem cap since it adjusts your headset's bearing play.

Next, attach the L-clip to the clip ring as described in the instructions. With the bag in place mark the top and end position of the slider, then remove the bag and mark the centerline of the top tube. Make sure everything is correct and mount the bike slider according to the manual. That's it! Depending on your top tube's slope some bending to the L-clip may be required.

#### The Ride

Once mounted correctly the A.S.S. bag worked exactly as advertised. There is literally no noticeable bouncing of the bag even on rougher terrain and it proved to be a really convenient add-on. All the small things I needed were within my reach - sunglasses, energy bars, the phone. However, the bag would benefit from a padded bottom to prevent heavier things like a mini tool from 'dinging' against the frame. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/assbag/zipper.jpg", "alt": "ass bag zipper", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/assbag/near-wheel.jpg", "alt": "near wheel", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/assbag/from-cockpit.jpg", "alt": "from cockpit", "width": "1067", "height" :"1600"},{"src": "/products/assbag/fully-loaded.jpg", "alt": "fully loaded", "width": "1067", "height" :"1600"},{"src": "/products/assbag/sticky-mount.jpg", "alt": "sticky mount", "width": "1067", "height" :"1600"},]},] }} />

The two outer side pockets of the A.S.S. bag gave me a bit of a head scratch. I couldn't figure out what to use them for since their opening faces angle slightly downwards on sloped top tubes. But I found the answer after looking into this on the 76 Projects website, they write: “external stash pockets - keep sticky used wrappers separate”. Also, the phone holder comes in handy but to be honest I would prefer a separate inner pocket for better protection. It is also a bit tight and fiddly to squeeze phones into. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/assbag/internal.jpg", "alt": "ass bag internals", "width": "1067", "height" :"1600"},{"src": "/products/assbag/open.jpg", "alt": "open bag", "width": "1067", "height" :"1600"},{"src": "/products/assbag/inner-mesh.jpg", "alt": "inner mesh", "width": "1067", "height" :"1600"},]},] }} />

For a recent trip to Tuscany, I wanted to remount the A.S.S. bag onto my girlfriend's bike. 76 Projects also offers their A.S.S. system separately which you may need if you want to run the bag on multiple bikes. Since I didn't have a separate Anti-Strap-System, I decided to remove it with a hair dryer and acetone. I then applied a new 3M double foam sticker to my girlfriend's top tube. Her bike has a strongly sloped top tube which requires a heavy bend in the L-shaped clip. Therefore, I omitted the ring clip and “strapped” the L-clip around the steerer tube. It worked ok on most surfaces and only started to rattle around on washboard sections of our ride. A good idea for future iterations of the A.S.S. bag might be to have a more flexible L-clip without the ring clip for faster and easier installation—a more “flexible” design.

Out of curiosity, I mounted the bag on the rear of the top tube and clipped it to the seat tube. This actually worked surprisingly well and could be another way to install your A.S.S. bag completely.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/assbag/near-seatpost.jpg", "alt": "near seatpost", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

#### Wrap-Up

All in all, the A.S.S. top-tube bag is a great bag. With a few iterations in its design, it will be amazing and I am looking forward to trying future updates.

We love what 76 Projects is doing and how they approach product design. We align very closely with their mission of considering the ideas that the mass market might not find feasible or profitable. With in-house manufacturing becoming more popular we really hope to see more companies like 76 Projects bringing new innovations to the table-like the A.S.S. system. We also hope they have names that are just as fun.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/assbag/synthwave-bike-bag.jpg", "alt": "synthwave bike bag", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

UK-based 76 Projects is thinking differently. Their new top-tube bag uses a different mount system than anything we have tried yet. Read the review.

76 Projects A.S.S. Top Tube Bag Review

<a href="https://76projects.com/" target="_blank">76 Projects</a> is a company from the UK, that is using in-house manufacturing techniques to address gaps in the market, quickly and efficiently. We recently tried out their <a href="https://76projects.com/collections/shop-on-bike-storage/products/ass-top-tube-bag" target="_blank">new top-tube bag</a> that uses the A.S.S. system mount to attach to a top tube in a whole new way. We tested the system and bag for a few months and had some thoughts. Read on.

Living with a bikepacker isn't always easy. Knowing what to get them for the holidays can be even harder. We have your back with these 25 ideas.

25 Holiday Gift Ideas for Bikepackers 2022

We understand that living with a bikepacker isn't easy. Bikepackers have a ton of dirty, bulky gear in the basement that tracks dirt everywhere. We know. It might also be tough knowing exactly what to get this person for the holidays. However, you don't need to fret. We have your back.

There's no doubt that I was pretty naive when I started this website. I was on day four of an eleven-day trip sitting at a picturesque lake in the mountains when the whole idea came together. “I'm going to be a bike writer.” Looking back at that moment I'm embarrassed to think about it. I didn't know what I didn't know. At the time, I thought I could hack my way through it all with an iPhone camera... sigh.

I eventually came around to the idea of needing better photography and learning how to take good photos. I purchased an entry-level DSLR for my wife's birthday in Japan a bunch of years ago. We haven't used it in years but would be perfect to get started. I started carrying the camera wrapped in a toque (Canadian for “beanie”) which I stowed away in my frame bag. Even though the camera was semi-protected, I could feel that the shock of mountain biking simply wasn't good for it.

This started me on the path of looking for a solid solution to carrying a camera while biking. A friend suggested using a hip pack which I now use regularly. The hip pack got the camera off the bike and works great. However, I took the camera and hip pack on a <a href="/stories/trips/vancouver-island-tree-to-sea">larger trip</a> this summer and after a few hundred kilometers it started to feel like an anchor.

The second I came across the <a href="https://cedaero.com/products/viewfinder" target="_blank">Viewfinder camera bag</a> from Cedaero, I knew it was what I was looking for all along—a compact 2.8L handlebar bag designed specifically for cameras. It seemed like the perfect size, it had a front pocket for cables, a moveable inner insert to allow for changing the size of compartments, and an optional shoulder strap to use while not riding. Cedaero does mention the Viewfinder was created for mirrorless cameras which I'll be upgrading to soon. In the meantime, I'll be testing out the Viewfinder with this older DSLR.

As usual, finding the bag made me super interested in who made it. I did a deep dive into Cedaero as a company and went hard into their Instagram and website to find out more. For the past 5 years <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZmfFl4oIIs" target="_blank">Dan Cruikshank</a> has been creating bags out of <a href="https://www.spokengear.com/" target="_blank">SpokeNGear bike shop</a> and <a href="https://cedarcoffeecompany.com/" target="_blank">Cedar Coffee Company</a> in Two Harbors, MN on the western shores of Lake Superior. Cedaero creates ready-to-order bags and custom frame, top tube, handlebar rolls, and stem bags. Being from Northern Ontario, I identify with the brand and products Cedaero makes especially the <a href="https://cedaero.com/products/space-heater%E2%84%A2-pogies-ready" target="_blank">Space Heater Pogies</a>.

I was chuffed when Cedaero sent us a Viewfinder to try out.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/cedaeroviewfinder/singletrack.jpg", "alt": "cedaero singletrack", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/cedaeroviewfinder/biking-downhill.jpg", "alt": "biking downhill", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/cedaeroviewfinder/mountain-biking.jpg", "alt": "mountain biking", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Installation

So far I strapped the Viewfinder to both my Surly Krampus for mountain biking and the <a href="/bikes/gravel/panorama-katahdin-v2">Panorama Katahdin</a> for gravel riding. Getting the bag on and off both bikes is a snap. The velcro straps are well thought out and fit around the handlebars and headset under the stem. Once locked in, the bag feels snug like a bug. More than any other handlebar bag I have used to date.

Any handlebar bag fits well on flat bars with a short stem. But on a gravel bike or anything with a longer stem the bag sits out far from the headset. Cedaero was thoughtful enough to add an extra long headset strap for this possibility. However, without a front rack or stabilizer, the bag tilts at a funny angle when installed on a bike with a longer stem. It fit perfectly in 44cm drop bars and left lots of room for my hands to ride.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/cedaeroviewfinder/from-cockpit.jpg", "alt": "from cockpit", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/cedaeroviewfinder/close-up.jpg", "alt": "close up", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/cedaeroviewfinder/surly-krampus.jpg", "alt": "surly krampus", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/cedaeroviewfinder/hoot.jpg", "alt": "hoot!", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Size &amp; Design

The first reaction I had taking the Viewfinder out of the shipping box was how small it seemed to be. I'm not sure I fully considered how small 2.8L was until the bag was in my hands. It's tiny. However, it ended up fitting my older, larger camera body, a 50mm prime, a 24mm prime, a mini tripod, the shutter remote, the beefy Canon strap, AND a Clif bar. With camera cables and the shoulder strap in the front pouch. Wow. The bag comes with a moveable insert to allow you to adjust the compartment sizes which would be a great detail for any bag.

The Viewfinder looks great and is exactly what it needs to be. It is available in a variety of colors depending on the material you want. You have a choice between nylon or waxed canvas both available at the same price point. I stupidly made the wrong decision while ordering. I chose the Moss color which looks sharp but only comes in nylon. I missed out on the waxed canvas option which would have helped tremendously with our wet, wet winters here on Vancouver Island.

For an extra $25 USD you can also order the <a href="https://cedaero.com/products/camera-strap" target="_blank">Light Meter shoulder strap</a> which allows you to take off the bag when heading into a gas station for those much-needed carbs.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/cedaeroviewfinder/in-the-forest.jpg", "alt": "in the forest", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

#### Let's Ride

Mountain biking with cameras. Eeesh. One of the biggest considerations for the Viewfinder for me was how it performed while mountain biking. I find myself spending more and more time on flat pedals in flowy singletrack with some technical bits. It's these technical bits that especially worry me when carrying a camera on my bike. Over rocks and roots, I found the Viewfinder bouncing slightly and taking some shock from my headtube. It did feel safe and secure but I couldn't help but wonder if that shock was making its way into my camera's internals. Logic dictates that no matter how much padding and security there is in a bag there will still be inertia and momentum to deal with. Because of this, I found myself checking the terrain a bit more than I would have to carrying my camera in a hip pack. To be clear, this is not a critique of the Viewfinder but more of the type of biking I do and I consider this trade-off way better than wearing a hip pack.

On the gravel, the Viewfinder shines! So much so that I ended up using the Viewfinder as a regular handlebar bag a few times to carry my lunch. I wish the flip-top opened toward the cockpit. I seemingly find myself trying to open the bag while riding on the gravel more than mountain biking.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/cedaeroviewfinder/camera-in-bag.jpg", "alt": "camera in bag", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/cedaeroviewfinder/compartments.jpg", "alt": "compartments", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/cedaeroviewfinder/lens-compartment.jpg", "alt": "lens compartment", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/cedaeroviewfinder/opening-bag.jpg", "alt": "opening bag", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Wrapping Up

The Viewfinder feels secure and does a great job of keeping your valuable camera nice and snug. As I mentioned above, it's the tightest, most secure handlebar bag I have used yet. But some questions remain in my head about how well any bag can protect moving parts from shock, especially while mountain biking. Depending on the type of camera you own this might not be a consideration. If you have a newer mirrorless system like the FujiX you would have nothing to worry about. However, I have an older, clunky Canon Rebel with every moving part imaginable and found myself playing it a bit safe on the more technical parts of my journeys. However, common sense dictates that there isn't such a thing as 100% protection in the context and that the trade-off is well worth it. I also see the Viewfinder making an impact on longer bikepacking trips. 

The $124 price tag is a bargain for the piece of mind the Viewfinder provides. Especially when you consider the 1000s of dollars it might save you in costly repairs or new camera equipment. The Viewfinder is a keeper. Get one <a href="https://cedaero.com/products/viewfinder" target="_blank">here</a>.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/cedaeroviewfinder/bag-on-moss.jpg", "alt": "bag on moss", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

Minnesota-based Cedaero recently launched a bag designed specifically for carrying a camera while cycling and we had the opportunity to try it out.

Cedaero Viewfinder Camera Pack Review

<a href="https://cedaero.com" target="_blank">Cedaero</a> makes custom and off-the-shelf bike bags from its headquarters / bike shop / coffee shop in Minnesota. They recently launched a bag designed specifically for carrying a camera while riding called <a href="https://cedaero.com/products/viewfinder" target="_blank">the Viewfinder</a>. We had the chance to try the Viewfinder while mountain biking and grinding some gravelle.

I have been riding on the West Coast of Canada for the past few years now. It's my first time living this close to an ocean, and I'm still adjusting to the weather. The weather patterns are very different here than anywhere else I have ever lived, and the fall season in particular confuses me. Our house is about 100 meters from the strait that separates Vancouver Island and northern Washington state. Post September, the breeze coming off the water is usually wet and cool; however, when I get out on the bike and head up into the mountains, the forest is still dry and hot. During this time of year, you basically need to be ready for all weathers.

Translating that range in weather systems into the right gear for riding is not easy. I still struggle with what to wear for protection and warmth. This year, I vowed to dig in and do some research on what to wear for the hot/cold fall and the wet, wet winter. My big plan was to simply look at the riders in the area. Maybe ridiculous; or—maybe brilliant for its simplicity? What I did notice is that many people are out with a wind layer. Crazy right? I have never considered a wind layer as a cyclist in the places I have lived; I always associated wind layers with endurance road cyclists—not really the type of biking that I like to do.

Enter 7Mesh. This company has been creating high-quality gear for cyclists since 2013, in Squamish, British Columbia. 7Mesh was started by a team of outdoor clothing experts who felt that the cycling world was getting left behind in regards to technical backcountry apparel. Utilizing 'premium materials, innovative design, and advanced construction methods', they consider their products to be 'alpine grade gear'. Sounds good to me. I was very lucky to get hooked up with the team who sent me a <a href="https://7mesh.com/northwoods-windshell-jacket" target="_blank">Northwoods Windshell</a> and a <a href="https://7mesh.com/copilot-jacket-1" target="_blank">Copilot Jacket</a> (more on the Copilot in the future).

I've been testing the Northwoods windshell since early spring. I have taken it out on a few multi-day trips and have kept it stowed away on every ride throughout the summer. As things have started to cool off, I have been getting a lot more use out of the Northwoods over the past few weeks. I haven't really written about apparel much, as clothing in general tends to be pretty subjective. However, the Northwoods stands out as something worth talking about so, here goes nothing.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/packaging-front.jpg", "alt": "packagin front", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/packaging-rear.jpg", "alt": "packagin rear", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Quality Construction

The Northwoods was originally introduced in 2015 and has had a few iterations over the years, with slight improvements and new color options. The first undeniable feature of the Northwoods is its quality. Even before removing the jacket from its packaging, you can feel that 7Mesh has taken care to present its product—a detail the designer in me never misses and always appreciates. The jacket is made of 100% nylon with a soft brush tricot on the brim of the hood, waist and chin piece. On the surface, the jacket is simple.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/northwoods-while-gravel-biking.jpg", "alt": " northwoods while gravel biking", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/barry-on-bridge.jpg", "alt": "barry on bridge", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/on-bridge.jpg", "alt": "on bridge", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/northwoods-closeup.jpg", "alt": "northwoods closeup", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Fit, Feel &amp; Look

One of my biggest peeves with cycling jackets is that they all seem to be designed for tall and lanky road cyclists—something I am not. I am your stock average Canadian of 5' 9” and 170 lbs, and I have never really been a fan of tight kits. The Northwoods seems to be the opposite and has a relaxed fit intended for layering throughout all seasons. The team sent me a size medium jacket and I was confused at first, thinking I had asked for a size too large. On closer inspection the shoulders seem to fit correctly, as did the length in the arm—so all good. Over a few wears I got more comfortable in the relaxed fit and realized that this is what I have been looking for all along. A simple, relaxed fit that looks great on and off the bike. As the days cool off, I find myself wearing the jacket casually as well. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/northwoods-rollup.jpg", "alt": "rolled up", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/strap-fastener.jpg", "alt": "strap fastener", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/strap-buckle.jpg", "alt": "strap buckle", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/strap-closeup.jpg", "alt": "strap closeup", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/zipper-closeup.jpg", "alt": "zipper-closeup", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### On The Bike

I have limited experience with nylon layers and was surprised at how warm a simple sheet of material can keep you. Being a synthetic material nylon by nature, isn't breathable and is meant to keep heat in and moisture out which the Northwoods does quite well. As you warm up the jacket builds a layer of warm air around you, perfect for early mornings and late afternoon chills. On top of its natural ability to trap heat the nylon boasts a DWR coating to protect you from light rains which will come in handy in the early months of winter here.

The hood fits large and is designed to fit over your helmet which is a nice little touch. However, the one quip I have about the hood is that it cant be stored or folded away while riding. The hood and the loose fitting jacket does get a bit flappy in wind or on quick descents. I guess this is the trade off for that fresh, relaxed look.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/barry-strapping-to-handlebars.jpg", "alt": "barry strapping to handlebars", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

#### Packing &amp; Portability

The biggest feature of a jacket lies in its portability. At 4oz (113g) the Northwoods is literally the lightest jacket I have ever worn in my life. Not once have I regretted bringing it along wevn when I didn't use it on a trip. At that weight there is literally no weight penalty for having it with you.

To store, the jacket folds up into a side zip pocket making its footprint about the size of two energy bars. It's small enough to fit into any handlebar bag and still have room for other gear and snacks. If you don't ride with a handlebar bag, the Northwoods has straps to attach the bag to your frame, seatpost or handlebars. At first, I thought I would get alot of use from these straps but realized the jacket stores so easily that I simply don't. If I had a say, I'd ask 7Mesh to add a one way valve to press air out of the roll to make it even smaller and more packable for bags.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/on-bars.jpg", "alt": "on bars", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/roll-on-bars.jpg", "alt": "roll on bars", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Wrapping Up

I didn't expect to get as much joy as I do from a simple layer of nylon. But here we are. A layer that keeps in the warmth, is layerable, and keeps out the rain. It might be a perfect jacket for the local weather patterns we have on our island. Not only that, it looks fresh and I'm happy to wear it out and about in town doing groceries and whatnot. 

7Mesh is all about quality and with that quality comes a price tag. $175 USD for a thin piece of nylon isn't cheap but 7Mesh does seem like an honest company honoring a good replacement program. If the Northwoods is a beacon of what to expect from 7Mesh, I can't wait to try the Copilot out.

Get it <a href="https://7mesh.com/northwoods-windshell-jacket" target="_blank">here</a>.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/7meshnorthwoods/barry-on-ferry.jpg", "alt": "barry on ferry", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

For the past few months, Barry has been testing out the 7Mesh Northwoods jacket. A simple nylon layer that keeps warmth in, and wind and rain out.

7Mesh Northwoods Windshell Review

For the past 10 years, Squamish-based <a href="https://7mesh.com" target="_blank">7Mesh</a> has been redefining what quality means in cycling apparel. And for the past few months, we have been testing out their <a href="https://7mesh.com/northwoods-windshell-jacket" target="_blank">Northwoods Windshell</a> on mountain and gravel rides across British Columbia. Zip up.

If you've been following this site for any period of time you may have picked up on my growing disdain for seatpacks and saddlebags. Without going on too much of a rant—loosening straps, bags that sit too low, tailwag, and just generally looking sloppy all contribute to my growing dissatisfaction. This dissatisfaction led to me giving up on strappy seat bags completely and instead trying out various rack and mini-pannier systems, like the <a href="/gear/bikepacking-bags/tailfin-carbon-rack">Tailfin system</a> (which I was quite happy with on <a href="/stories/trips/vancouver-island-tree-to-sea">a recent trip</a>).

A few weeks ago, my good friend and boss at my day job mentioned that he grew up with the founder of Swift Industries. I almost fell out of my chair and wondered why it took so long for him to reveal that little tidbit. I was over the moon when he introduced me to Martina Brimmer, and even more blown away when Martina wanted to hop on a video chat and meet face to face. After two years of running this site, Martina is the first person that actually wanted to meet. We had a fantastic conversation about how Swift Industries came to be and where it's headed. I'll admit, it's tough sitting through a call trying your best to be chill when at the same time you are a real fanboy.

During our call, Martina mentioned a new seatpack they were close to launching called the Olliepack. The Swift Industries team spent over two years designing and testing the bag with an aim to prevent many of the seatpack issues listed above. I was immediately dubious, but my interest was piqued when Martina told me that the bag was designed specifically for shredpacking on rough terrain. For me, this is where all seatpacks fall apart. The second you ride into the chonk, straps loosen, et voila—you get the wag and are stopping every hour or so to re-cinch.

Martina agreed to send me an Olliepack and I was keen to get it going.

#### Immediate Impressions

Opening the box, I was actually surprised at how small and light the Olliepack was. At 6L, and weighing in at 11oz, the bag is tiny. Almost more like a mini-pannier for your seat rails than any saddle bag I have come across yet. The Olliepack is simple, which is disarming at first. Only once you get into the details do you realize that its simplicity is very intentional. I immediately loved the color, which tonally fit with my <a href="/bikes/gravel/landyachtz-ab-st">Landyacthz AB-ST</a>, one of the bikes I planned testing the Olliepack with. The pack ships in three color options: black, teal, and the famous Swift Industries coyote brown.

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#### On &amp; Off

There's something about seatpacks that always make feel a little stupid. A mess of straps and canvas, you never really know which straps are intended to go through the saddle rails and which are used to cinch the bag shut. Also, as a bag gets older and dirtier, this mess seems to become worse over time. Getting most seat packs on and off a bike has been a total PITA for me. Maybe it's just me? Unclear.

The Olliepack, however, was straightforward. All the straps seemed really well thought out, and all excess was tucked and buckled away. The single beefy velcro strap that fits around the seatpost is a breeze to get on (and off), and it is rubberized inside to prevent any rotational movement around the post. One beautiful detail is that the saddle rail straps and cinch straps are detailed differently for quick visual understanding of which straps go where. I can't stress how great this is, and I am a bit baffled at how no other maker (that I have come across) has done this yet. It's such a simple idea that makes the product designer in me very happy, but also demonstrates the strong human-centered design culture that Swift must have internally. There is no denying that the Olliepack is a tight little package. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/olliepack/on-beach.jpg", "alt": "on beach", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

The saddle rail straps have a quick-release buckle system that makes cinching and tightening under the saddle a breeze. Again, this is one of those little details that make the Olliepack a bit of a dream to put on and take off the bike. I ended up swapping the Olliepack between two different bikes with two very different saddles: first was my monster gravel bike with a race saddle, second was my all-terrain bike with <a href="https://www.brooksengland.com/en_us/b17.html?___from_store=en_row" target="_blank">a Brooks B-17</a>. At the risk of sounding too obvious, the Olliepack was easier to install on the Brooks than the race saddle, as its rails are much deeper.

Fully loaded, the Olliepack is the first seat bag that I wasn't able to shake. But let's get out there and see how it does on various tracks.

#### On The Gravel

My first trip was a simple gravel grind to meet my family at a local beach about 30km out of town. The wind had changed directions overnight and covered the sky in smoke from a wildfire in mainland Canada. After filling the Olliepack with various beach toys and lunchables, I hit the road. The ride began with about 10km of asphalt; on that surface, the Olliepack was imperceptible. It's like it wasn't even there, even fully loaded. And once I hit the gravel, it continued to be undetectable. Looking at your shadow really demonstrates how much a bag is wagging, so I kept checking mine to see how the pack was faring. Even in my shadow, there seemed to be no movement. Nuts. Even while climbing up out of the saddle and pulling on the handlebars in an exaggerated way, I couldn't get the Olliepack to move.

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With past saddle bags, I have always tried to access the main compartment with the bag strapped to the bike, telling myself that physical tetris was better than the hassle of removing the bag completely. With the Olliepack, this wasn't an issue. When I arrived at the beach, I took the pack off the bike to access the main compartment. The roll-top closure is easy to use and so is cinching it all up.

While on the beach, I “discovered” a secret mesh pocket on the underside of the bag. Swift had been nice enough to send me the marketing materials before I received the bag, which I probably should have read beforehand—they clearly call out the mesh pocket as a feature and call it the Power Mesh Stash Hatch :) The stash hatch is a fantastic idea, and I'd probably still have my favorite flip-flops to this day if my older bags had had one. 

#### In the Chonk

After being totally blown away at how the Olliepack performed on the gravel, it was time to test it in the chonk. Any bikepacking on our small island is for sure going to involve some level of singletrack, and I was keen on checking Swift's claims that the Olliepack is shred-friendly.

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The Olliepack was seemingly designed to sit high on the seatpost, up and away from the tire to accommodate for dropper posts. It fits fantastic on my <a href="/gear/components/pnw-loam-dropper-post">PNW dropper post</a>, with 150mm of travel. This was only my second time riding with a saddlebag on a dropper post but the Olliepack seemed more prepared for the job than the Outer Shell pack I tested my post with. I couldn't quite drop the post the full travel, but it was very close. So close that the Olliepack's main velcro strap didn't seem to interfere with the post or get caught in it. Fully loaded however, I did notice that the post took a fraction of a second longer to raise. I doubt this is the pack's fault, but in the moment that fraction of a second is noticeable. 

I have been out on the trails a handful times with the Olliepack, trying my best to shake the thing. Simply put, it doesn't budge. In my opinion, the team has successfully created a singletrack friendly seatpack. Shred on.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/olliepack/the-chonk.jpg", "alt": "the chonk", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

#### Wrapping Up

It's honestly tough to find anything wrong with the Olliepack. The only challenge I see is in its size. At 6L, it definitely is not meant for everyone or for every trip. You wouldn't, for example, take the Olliepack on a multi-month journey across the Himalayas—I don't think anyway. But I'm not sure that's the intention of the Olliepack. The pack seems ideally suited for day tripping or even overnighters where you are going to be hitting some gnarlier trails. 

The Olliepack is something new, at least to this cycling writer. It starts to feel like a new category of bag designed specifically for people who play in the mountains and want to move fast and light. The devil is in the Olliepacks details. There are a lot of smart decisions that can only come from the experience and culture of a company like Swift Industries. All those small details that at first seem simplistic, ladder up into some large, large love. The Olliepack has found a permanent home on my monster gravel bike, and I look forward to shredding the days away with it.

Get the Olliepack goes for $180 USD. Get it <a href="https://bit.ly/3BzHBlD" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">here</a>.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/olliepack/shred-on.jpg", "alt": "shred on", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

We tested the shred-friendly Olliepack from Swift Industries for a few weeks. Grab a coffee and read some words about it.

Swift Industries Olliepack Review

Seattle-based <a href="https://bit.ly/3UrKe1e" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">Swift Industries</a> needs little introduction. Since 2008, Swift has been creating some of the best bike bags out there and are considered pioneers of our sport. A fun coincidence connected us with the founders of Swift Industries as they were about to launch the <a href="https://bit.ly/3BzHBlD" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">Olliepack</a>, their new shredpacking seat bag. We have been testing it for the past few weeks. Grab a coffee and read some words about it.

For us bikepackers, space is always at a premium. It took me a <a href="/stories/riders/global-bikepacking-a-life-altered">few years and about 35,000km of cycling</a> the world to ditch my (larger volume) pannier setup in favour of more compact luggage. As a result, I no longer have a few large bags, but many little ones. And just when we think there isn't an inch of space left for even a Snickers bar, in comes the Micro Piggy by 76 Projects. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/micropiggy/with-tube.jpg", "alt": "micro piggy velcro strip", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/micropiggy/on-top-tube.jpg", "alt": "on top tube", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/micropiggy/middle-of-top-tube.jpg", "alt": "middle of top tube", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/micropiggy/micro-piggy.jpg", "alt": "micro piggy", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Mounting and Placement

The Micro Piggy is a storage solution that includes both bolt-on and stick-on options. It is meant for securing smaller objects to the frame, such as tools, an inner tube, or—as I discovered—snacks! Ideally it is mounted using the under top tube bosses, which are available on select modern frames. My older and very trusted 2013 <a href="https://www.thorncycles.co.uk/bikes" target="_blank">Thorn Nomad Mk2</a>, unfortunately, does not have this setup. Lucky for me, 76 Projects has a unique sticky mount option, allowing me to place the Micro Piggy anywhere it fits on my frame.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/micropiggy/piggy-on-thorn.jpg", "alt": "micro piggy on thorn", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

For positioning, I opted for the top of my top tube, since my v-brake cable routing prevented me from placing it underneath. The stick-on mounting itself is quite straight forward: Use the alcohol wipe provided to ensure a clean surface; place the adhesive strip on the back of the mount, and press it onto the frame. For those of us who use frame bags for bikepacking, finding a good spot for the Micro Piggy may prove to be tricky. This is what had me initially disappointed. There simply wasn't enough space in between my frame bag velcro straps for the Micro Piggy. 

Happily, I was able to test out this little piggy during my bikepacking “off-season”. As a seasonal forestry worker, it seems that I am either 100% at work or 100% at play. I now typically leave on multi-month bikepacking trips, and work hard in between adventures. So, at this time, most of my rides are day trips. The Micro Piggy proved to be a nice addition for local gravel rides around my home town of Dawson Creek, where a frame bag wasn't really that necessary. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/micropiggy/with-snacks.jpg", "alt": "with snacks", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/micropiggy/in-the-wild.jpg", "alt": "in the wild", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/micropiggy/from-the-cockpit.jpg", "alt": "from the cockpit", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Durability

The Micro Piggy is lightweight and the design appears to be quite solid. The mount is 3D printed with a velcro strap that feels anything but flimsy. I used it to carry a spare inner tube and snacks—something that we hungry cyclists never seem to have enough space for. All objects tested stayed firmly in place, especially with the added heavy elastic band. As for the sticky mount itself—I had no reason to think that it would be going anywhere. On the 76 Projects website, they say that it sticks “like sh*t to a blanket.” But as a long-term bikepacker, I can never fully speak to the durability of a product until I have ridden with it for a long time. For now, I am impressed with just how secure it feels, something I was initially hesitant about.

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#### Final Thoughts

Would I take the Micro Piggy bikepacking? Yes, I would—if I could integrate it with my Rogue Panda custom frame bag. I am fairly set on using a frame bag for bikepacking, and unfortunately that leaves me wondering where I'd put the Micro Piggy. However, if you have the real estate, I would recommend adding the Micro Piggy to your setup as additional storage. Longevity is an important factor to take into consideration when buying gear for a long bikepacking trip, and the Micro Piggy feels like it would survive months of riding on rough tracks. 

Get it <a href="https://76projects.com/products/micro-piggy" target="_blank">here</a>.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/micropiggy/ready-to-ride.jpg", "alt": "ready to ride", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

The Micro Piggy from UK-based 76 Projects was originally designed for full-suspension riders to carry an extra tube. We tried it through the lens of bikepacking. Let's go.

The Micro Piggy by 76 Projects Review

UK-based <a href="https://76projects.com" target="_blank">76 Projects</a> has a knack for imagining cycling accessories and new ideas. A great example is their <a href="https://76projects.com/products/micro-piggy" target="_blank">Micro Piggy</a>, a storage solution originally designed for full-suspension riders to carry an extra tube. However, we are always looking for new storage solutions for our adventure rigs, we decided to test the Micro Piggy through the lens of bikepacking. Let's go.

There's no denying that handlebars made from bamboo split opinion. I asked my Twitter followers what they thought about them, and the response was pretty much 50-50. My initial scepticism had to be kept in check: how could wood be a sensible choice for handlebars? Surely they'll snap. But Barry tested Passchier's <a href="/gear/components/passchier-gump">Gump bars</a> and that didn't end with a face full of splinters. In fact, he quite liked them… and surely he wouldn't want to take out one of his new writers… I'll be okay. Still, doubt was on my mind; so before fitting the bars, I thought it would be sensible to do some due diligence. How strong is bamboo? I asked Google. And the trusty source of all knowledge put my worries to bed. Bamboo reportedly has a higher tensile strength than steel… although I'm not quite sure what that really means. It's also used as scaffolding in all sorts of places around the world. That's got to count for something, right?

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One thing is for certain: these bars are beautiful. Photographs don't do them justice, and the finish is impeccable. A piece of art in their own right, it felt almost criminal knowing that I was going to take them off-road with the potential to be busted up. The minimal look seriously appeals to me and they're a head-turner. Some riders might be used to the little alignment markers most bars nowadays come with to allow for centralised and perfectly rolled bars, but I was happy to swap these out for the perfectly unspoiled wood instead.

#### First, A Quick Lesson On Preparation

With my doubts somewhat eased, it was time to fit the Astaires on a bike. My rigid alloy gravel bike would have been my first choice, but review gear doesn't often stay on my bike long before being switched out again. The drop bars, and accompanying hooded brakes/gears weren't going to make for an easy swap, so the gravel bike was ruled out. Instead, I chose my steel hardtail—<a href="https://www.stifmtb.com/collections/stif-squatch/products/stif-squatch-pro-kit" target="_blank">a Stif Squatch</a>. I stripped the bike of the usual bars, taking care to slide my brake levers off and onto the Passchier bars without scratching the finish. Finally, it was time to tighten the stem. Except it wasn't. The 31.8mm diameter of the bamboo bars (obviously) didn't fit the 35mm stem clamp I already had fitted. And I didn't have a spare. Thankfully, next-day delivery meant that I had a stem quickly enough to complete the test, but I was also reminded to be better prepared. I can also confirm that the Astaire bars are indeed 31.8mm in diameter, despite not being listed on Passchier's website.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/passchierastaire/stif-squatch.jpg", "alt": "stif squatch", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

#### Initial Thoughts

After fitting the bars and reading the accompanying information, my first question was: who are these bars for? The instructions made it clear that the bars aren't made for trail riding, and their narrow 620mm width confirmed this. The vibration dampening properties (more on this soon) suit off-road riding, but the bars' narrowness offers less control than I'd have liked, when riding on double track. Perhaps I'm so used to 800mm handlebars on my mountain bikes that anything much smaller feels twitchy and less stable.

I left the house and firmly stuck to the 'no jumpy stuff' rule that I'd read on the leaflet. Instead, a local loop would let me ride road, gravel, double track, and even a ribbon of grassy singletrack. The road riding didn't seem to feel any different at all, aside from the bars being narrower. My alloy <a href="https://burgtec.co.uk/product/ride-wide-alloy-enduro-handlebars/" target="_blank">Burgtec bars</a>, which were fitted before the swap, felt very similar. I honestly felt quite deflated, thinking that I had wasted my time swapping in the Astaire bars only to find no difference... at least to begin with.

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#### Where The Bars Shine

When it was finally time to ditch the road in favour of gravel, I stood to climb a small bank and that's when the bars seemed to come alive. The definite flex was noticeable without being unnerving. Both the tarmac and gravel climbs were subject to the dampening that Passchier had promised. They seemed, as advertised, to 'soak up the road.'

> The definite flex was noticeable without being unnerving. Both the tarmac and gravel climbs were subject to the dampening that Passchier had promised.

As my ride progressed and I left the gravel, with the tracks turning to dust and dirt, the vibration of the bars again seemed similar to alloy bars when unweighted. A slight change to my usual relaxed riding position, and a little weight through the arms and onto the bars, brought them back to life again.

Eventually, I found some familiarity with the width of the bars and started to find comfort in tighter turns again. After that, I felt duty call. I'm definitely an off-road rider, so if the bars have come to me, they must be put through proper riding, right? A couple of short descents gave me a chance to hop and skip the bike around a little. Some bunny hops and small pops from roots and rocks were my usual level of playfulness during a ride, and the bars didn't seem to mind. They offered no disconcerting give on larger impacts but continued to soak up the finer vibrations. It was both pleasing and reassuring to know that the bars are strong even while under flex. I purposely didn't take them on the trail; when I spoke with Passchier they were keen to let me know that their intended use is not on downhill trails, but for usual gravel riding and bikepacking.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/passchierastaire/astaire-on-doubletrack.jpg", "alt": "astaire on doubletrack", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

#### Wrapping Up

Several more test rides and I found the same result—the Passchier Astaire bars were at their best when weighted, even slightly. The reduction of buzz through the bars became noticeable only when at least some pressure was on them, and it was certainly pleasing when it happened.

Because I used them with a suspension fork, I wasn't able to feel the full benefit of the bars; also, the width isn't my personal preference. So, who are these bars for? In my mind, they are for riders of fully rigid bikes who already suffer from regular arm and hand fatigue when riding. Commuters and tourers who aren't riding twisty trails might find the width more to their liking, and with a rigid fork you'll feel more of the bamboo in action.

The Astaire bars go for $185 CAD / $140 USD / £185 - get them <a href="https://bit.ly/3gK8U5W" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">here</a>.

Passchier recently added the new narrower Astaire to it's lineup. Read Lew's full review on them here.

Passchier Astaire Handlebar Review

Over the past couple years, <a href="https://bit.ly/3gK8U5W/" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">Passchier</a> has been making some waves with their stylish, vibration-absorbing bamboo handlebars. They recently added a new narrower bar to the lineup—dubbed <a href="https://bit.ly/3gK8U5W" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">the Astaire bar</a>—and let us try them out. Follow along as Lew asks some tough questions and gives his impressions on these flexy bars.

Over the past two years, I have been on a quest to lighten my bikepacking rig. I know it seems a bit silly to buy a sturdy, 29-pound steel bike designed to climb volcanoes and then try to make it lighter. But when the bike is fully loaded for longer trips, the whole affair starts approaching the 50 pound mark, making for some <a href="/stories/trips/vancouver-island-tree-to-sea">very tough grinds</a> while cycling in the mountains. So tough that you start rethinking every single gram of weight on the bike.

After some thinking, it seemed that the easiest place to start dropping the weight would be with the wheels. Surly shipped the 2020 Krampus with a set of WTB alloy wheels, 3.0 Dirt Wizards, and huge, heavy tubes to fill them. The three items put together are next-level sturdy, but come with a significant weight penalty. This led me to swap out the tires for a set of tubeless <a href="/gear/components/maxxis-ikon">2.6 Maxxis Ikons</a>, which did drop my overall weight by almost 2 kilos! Next up? Those wheels.

From the start I was keen on a set of composite wheels and even keener on buying something from a local brand. In British Columbia, we seem to have a very high carbon wheel brand per capita ratio. And to make the decision even harder, they are all pretty awesome. Ultimately, I decided on getting a set from NOBL, who manufacture rims in China and hand-build the wheels here on Vancouver Island.

#### Ordering &amp; Customization

I consider the interaction with product teams a super important component of a product's overall experience. I have had some pretty interesting interactions over the past couple years, and you can always get a pretty good sense of a company's culture from the people you interact with. That said, my chats with NOBL were legit friendly and fun. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/nobltr37/industry-nine-hub.jpg", "alt": "industry nine hub", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/nobltr37/wheelset-on-bench.jpg", "alt": "wheelset on bench", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/nobltr37/hub-and-spokes.jpg", "alt": "hub and spokes", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/nobltr37/industry-nine-logo.jpg", "alt": "lindustry nine logo", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

I am probably not NOBL's target customer, at least for their mountain wheelsets. From most the marketing materials, it would seem that NOBL's mountain wheelsets are designed and engineered for squish bike riders ripping up the berms and singletrack—not fully rigid cross-country bikepackers like me. Words like “chase podiums at your local enduro” and “designed and tested on the World Cup circuit” had me wondering if I was making the right choice. For one thing, I wanted to put my 2.6'' low-pressure tires on them for that chonky B.C. backcountry. Enter customer service, who instantly assured me that the TR37s were versatile enough for my needs and that rigid bikes were in fact pretty awesome.

The staff walked me through a <a href="https://youtu.be/P8ROhP_3-Qk?t=13" target="_bank">plethora</a> of options for my new wheels. Once I landed on the 29” TR37s, my biggest decision was which hubset to build them around. Options include: Industry Nine, Chris King and DT Swiss hubs. After watching <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1KmNKUjizE" target="_bank">this video</a> shot by NOBL's videographer <a href="https://www.instagram.com/max_mcculloch/" target="_bank">Max McCulloch</a>, there was no way I could choose anything other than the Industry Nine Hydra Super Boost.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/nobltr37/tr37-at-beach.jpg", "alt": "tr37 at beach", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

Another nifty perk when purchasing a set of NOBL wheels is being able to choose the colors of the logo stickers on the wheel and spoke nipples. At surface level this could seem like a bit of unnecessary accoutrements; however, it's an awesome opportunity to tone down (or up) the wheels to match your setup. So many cycling companies are uber protective of their brand and want their logo to stick out vs. blend in. I give NOBL huge props on this. I ended up choosing black word type and a bright yellow crown. I thought that the black would show up on the charcoal of the carbon and the yellow would match the Maxxis logo of my Ikons. In my head I had the image of a muscle car's <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EkzmQ4MKjS0/WiG8UYo0uaI/AAAAAAAE5Pc/FdnYxEzh47krl_CzEVf_Lk0xnAub8BJLACLcBGAs/s1600/tumblr_oeffpsi2uv1qh5zuoo1_1280.jpg" target="_bank">mag wheels</a>.

#### Specs &amp; Design

One of the more interesting ideas behind the TR37s is the distinctive 'wave' profile. The sine-wave like shape of the rims allows the material to flatten out at each spoke and have a drop in between. According to NOBL this adds to the rims' lateral stiffness, which in my non-physics brain seems to make much sense. The front wheel internal width is 31mm and the rear is 30mm but both have an external width of 37mm, hence the name. 

<table>
 <tr>
 <th></th>
 <th>Front</th>
 <th>Rear</th>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>Weight 29/27.5"</td>
 <td>450g / 430g</td>
 <td>550g / 520g</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>Internal Width</td>
 <td>31mm</td>
 <td>30mm</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>Weight 29”/27.5"</td>
 <td>450g / 430g</td>
 <td>550g / 520g</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>Depth</td>
 <td>20.5mm</td>
 <td>20.5mm</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>Hole Count</td>
 <td>32</td>
 <td>32</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>ERD 29/27.5"</td>
 <td>599mm / 561mm</td>
 <td>599mm / 561mm</td>
 </tr>
</table>

#### Initial Impressions And Oh, That Look

When the wheels showed up, I was charmed by the care NOBL poured into shipping and protecting the wheels I was about to bash all over the place. The carbon seemed to sparkle and the logo colours totally popped. As I had imagined, the black did stick out from the grey carbon, and the yellow was (almost) a bang-on match for the Maxxis logo. Inside the box was a polaroid of the wheels being built by NOBL staff in Cumberland, which was a nice touch. The sine-wave profile was a bit of a surprise, and looked more dramatic than any of the photos I had seen on NOBL's website. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/nobltr37/tr37-in-grass.jpg", "alt": "tr37 in grass", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/nobltr37/logo-closeup.jpg", "alt": "logo close up", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/nobltr37/yellow-crown.jpg", "alt": "yellow crown", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

While ordering, I managed to make a costly mistake, and I ended up receiving a Shimano freehub body. I was running a <a href="https://www.sram.com/en/sram/models/cs-pg-1230-a1" target="_bank">PG-1230 NX SRAM cassette</a> that (obviously) needed a SRAM XD driver body. Crap. My friend Andy and I were leaving <a href="/stories/trips/vancouver-island-tree-to-sea">for a trip</a> the following week, so I ended up taking the wheel to my friends at <a href="https://www.martysmountaincycle.com/" target="_bank">Marty's Mountain Cycle</a> here in Victoria. As usual, they are the masters at getting things done fast and well. They ordered me the right freehub body for the cassette and sent me on my way. Cheers gents.

#### Time to Ride...

Before heading out on my big trip, I was able to take the NOBLs out on my <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/7480573615" target="_bank">favorite in-town XC loop</a>. The first thing that is impossible to ignore is the freehub sound coming out of the Industry Nine hubs. Wowza. For sure not everyone is into <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFhVy3H5gzg" target="_bank">a loud hub</a>, and it took me a while to get accustomed to it; now—after 600km+ with them—I find myself using the sound in all sorts of creative ways, including alerting pedestrians and other cyclists that I'm behind them.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/nobltr37/surly-krampus-with-nobl-wheels.jpg", "alt": "surly krampus with nobl wheels", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/nobltr37/tr37-front-wheel.jpg", "alt": "tr37 front wheel", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/nobltr37/tr37-rear-wheel.jpg", "alt": "tr37 rear wheel", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/nobltr37/tr37-for-bikepacking.jpg", "alt": "tr37 for bikepacking", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

Moving from alloy to composite was a bit of a change and took some getting used to. Having to adjust to the lateral stiffness of carbon surprised me, but I soon found myself cornering quicker and more confidently than with my alloy WTBs.

But the real test for the TR37s was a trip my buddy Andy and I had planned around <a href="/stories/trips/vancouver-island-tree-to-sea">Northern Vancouver Island</a>. I will admit, with 40 pounds of gear and food strapped to your bike it is hard to notice any weight improvement from your wheelset, but the TR37s continued to feel snappy and happy over the 6-day voyage.

Throughout the 400km trip we faced some serious steep climbs and descents. Steep descents in thick chonk (fully loaded) is always a bit nerve racking, but the NOBLs gave me the confidence I needed to make it through more than one sketchy high altitude backcountry pass. The vertical compliance and overall impact strength of the TR37s, along with lower tire pressure in the Ikons, provided all the travel my rigid bike needed to get over all those rocks and roots. It might not be 'enduro', but it aint lolly-gagging either.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/nobltr37/ready-for-bikepacking.jpg", "alt": "ready for bikepacking", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

#### Wrapping Up

Being a rigid mountain biker is a funny thing—I never really know if a product is intended for me. Anything that isn't gravel gear is positioned as enduro (or trail) gear. However, between those two categories lives an <a href="https://bikepacking.com/plog/atb-manifesto/" target="_bank">entire universe of riders</a> that don't get a lot of recognition. I will say that NOBL's customer service team was the first to acknowledge that fact, and they assured me that their product would work for my use case. I will always appreciate that moment.

The wheels? They look and feel great. With the Industry Nine Hydra upgrade the TR37s come out to $1,875 CAD/$1,550 USD, which places them at the more affordable end of the premium carbon wheel spectrum. With a lifetime warranty and a 50% replacement cost discount for non-riding-damage (!!!), the price seems more than reasonable.

And in regard to the Krampus—it does feel lighter and more nimble than the day it showed up at my door. However, over the course of this latest trip I decided that the Krampus needs to be what it is—a sturdy bikepacking rig; and I need to get over trying to also make it my XC race machine. Last week, I made a special order from <a href="https://www.wzrd.bike/" target="_bank">WZRD. bikes</a> here in Victoria to build me a <a href="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f3d8961be04694bc0f2e799/03dc413d-5d3b-44b2-bc44-e95b20ccf711/File_000+%286%29.jpeg?format=2500w" target="_bank">custom XC racer</a>. You probably don't have to think too hard on which wheels I will be putting on that beautiful machine. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/nobltr37/tr37-build.jpg", "alt": "tr37 build", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

NOBL has been producing world-class composite wheels in British Columbia, Canada since 2013. We swapped a set of old alloy wheels to a shiny new set of NOBL TR37s and went riding.

NOBL TR37 Wheelset Review

<a href="https://noblwheels.com" target="_bank">NOBL</a> has been producing world-class composite wheels in British Columbia, Canada since 2013. In 2020, they moved the NOBL operation from the Fraser Valley to the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island. We swapped a set of old alloy wheels for a shiny new set of <a href="https://noblwheels.com/tr37/" target="_bank">NOBL TR37s</a>. Let's get going.

Since its inception, bikepacking has been clearly defined as a different-from-bike touring activity. As a tourer turned bikepacker, this delineation has often seemed to be to the detriment of bikepacking rather than the other way around. Sure, bikepacking terrain is very different from road touring, but ultimately the spirit remains the same—getting out there and doing it. There is a lot of learning that has come out of hundreds of years of bike touring that seemed to be either totally ignored or else forgotten, especially in the realm of seatbags and—omg, tailwag.

More and more we are starting to see bag companies reboot older touring ideas, using new design and technologies to create bikepacking gear. For example, <a href="https://www.arkel-od.com/" target="_blank">Arkel</a> here in Canada has 25 years' experience as one of the country's best road touring pannier makers. They have been leveraging their experience and moving in totally new directions, creating products like their <a href="/gear/bikepacking-bags/arkel-rollpacker">Rollpacker Seat Bag</a>. We find this all super exciting. There are also newer companies who seemingly bypass all the traps of the traditional bikepacking setup, and are just able to think differently. Enter Tailfin.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/tailfin/carbon-rack.jpg", "alt": "carbon rack", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

Tailfin started in 2017, as a <a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/tailfin/tailfin-ultra-light-carbon-bike-rack-and-panniers" target="_blank">Kickstarter project</a>. For the project, Tailfin was actually the product name for an ultralight carbon rack and pannier system aimed at road cyclists. The team succeeded in raising 300x their initial ask and got to work. Since the Kickstarter, they have adopted Tailfin as the company brand and have doubled down on technical equipment for off-road touring and bikepackers. Tailfin pride themselves on their R&amp;D, and they bring a lot of thought and creativity to the bikepacking room. An excellent example of this kind of thinking would be their clever <a href="https://www.tailfin.cc/product/cargo-cage-system/suspension-fork-mounts/sfm/?v=3e8d115eb4b3" target="_blank">suspension fork mounts</a>. Suspension forks and touring?! 

Tailfin's flagship product is their complete reboot on the traditional rack and pannier system. It is aimed at riders who want to go light and fast but also need the durability of being off-road and in the chonk. Tailfin sent us the full package—the <a href="https://www.tailfin.cc/product/pannier-racks/carbon-racks/carbon-rack/?v=3e8d115eb4b3" target="_blank">Carbon Rack</a> with pannier side mounts, a <a href="https://www.tailfin.cc/product/pannier-trunk-bags/aeropack-trunk-top-bag/" target="_blank">20L top trunk bag</a>, 2 x <a href="https://www.tailfin.cc/product/pannier-trunk-bags/mini-panniers/" target="_blank">10L mini-panniers</a>, and the <a href="https://www.tailfin.cc/product/spares/axles/universal-thru-axle/?v=3e8d115eb4b3" target="_blank">universal thru-axle</a>. I received the kit in February of this year and have been waiting on a trip big and rugged enough that warranted the Tailfin. This summer, my buddy Andy and I set off for a 400km trip on <a href="/stories/trips/vancouver-island-tree-to-sea">North Vancouver Island's Tree to Sea Loop</a>—a perfect testing ground for the Tailfin. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/tailfin/universal-axle-box.jpg", "alt": "universal axle box", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/tailfin/universal-axle.jpg", "alt": "universal axle", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/tailfin/universal-axle-bits.jpg", "alt": "universal axle bits", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/tailfin/universal-axle-bits-angle.jpg", "alt": "universal axle bits angled", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Installation

Right off the bat, I will say that the Tailfin is a high, high, high-end product. It is obvious from the very start: everything is super polished, and I quite enjoyed taking it all out of the minimalist, thoughtful packaging. The rack and bags are beautiful, and you can immediately feel the quality in every detail.

As I was preparing to install the rack, I got hung up on the universal thru-axle. In order to be truly universal, the axle is made up of a series of parts and spacers and my brain refused to play nice with the clear instructions that Tailfin provided. I was hoping to use the axle as it allows you to use a quick release and remove the entire rack quickly. After 30 minutes of trying to sort it out, I opted to mount the rack directly to my seat stay mounts. I would have preferred using the dropout mounts, but alas, Surly didn't seem to thread them properly. Boo. 

Once the rack was attached to the frame, the tool-free seatpost connector worked like a charm. Just seeing the rack on the bike made it somehow look faster. All there was to do after that was screw in the mounts to the top trunk bag and side panniers and put them on the rack. A breeze. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/tailfin/tailfin-on-surly-krampus.jpg", "alt": "tailfin on surly krampus", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

#### Let's hit the gravel...

The immediate benefit to the Tailfin system is that there is zero tailwag. This may seem like an obvious benefit, but coming from the seat bag world, I am always surprised at how much tailwag we tolerate. Tailfin describes the system as being 'designed to flow with the bike'. It really feels like this is the case as the rack and bags are all super solid with absolutely zero movement or rattling while riding. Whether this means the rack is rigid or flexible, however, I couldn't really say :) 

#### The AP20 Trunk Bag

The AP20 Trunk Bag is the main bag of the system and boasts 20L of volume with a max carry capacity of 9kg. The trunk bag is big, err, I mean huge. I have never carried a 20L bike bag on my bike and adjusting to this much volume in one bag was a bit tough for me. With that volume, I ended up overpacking and added a bit too much weight to my bike. This is my fault and not the bag's. 

One sticky issue I had with the bag was making sure that it was packed in a way that could fit under my saddle. I found that I needed to pack all my clothes near the rear of the bag and less up front in order for it to fit correctly. I am not sure if this is an oversight or by design but it did feel a touch awkward. Tailfin does mention that the system is dropper post friendly. However, if I didn't pack my gear at the back of the bag, there was no way my saddle would be able to drop. I'm pretty sure I am not the first rider to notice this issue, as Tailfin does sell <a href="https://www.tailfin.cc/product/spares/accessories-accessories/extended-aeropack-seatpost-connector/?v=3e8d115eb4b3" target="_blank">an accessory</a> that will lengthen the seatpost connector by 50mm to push the trunk bag out from under the saddle.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/tailfin/tailfin-on-beach.jpg", "alt": "tailfin on beach", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/tailfin/trunk-bag-detail.jpg", "alt": "trunk bag detail", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/tailfin/seatpost-connector.jpg", "alt": "seatpost connector pins", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/tailfin/trunk-bag-connector-pins.jpg", "alt": "seatpost connector pins", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/tailfin/carbon-rack-on-beach.jpg", "alt": "carbon rack on beach", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

The trunk bag was designed to be removed from the bike for ease of use. It has a simple roll top and compression straps to tighten the bag while riding. In British Columbia, we spend a lot of time in bear country, and the compression straps are a great place to hang our bear spray. The bag has two side access zippers. One is a small, long pocket for quick access items like pens or tools. The other is direct access to the main storage of the bag. I did try to access the main compartment a few times while riding and was a bit surprised to find that the compression straps actually overlapped the zipper. However, once I loosened off the straps, access was easy and I found what I was looking for.

Getting the trunk bag on and off the bike was super simple at first, but it seemed to be a bit more difficult over time. The bag has a hook under the front of it that slips into the front of the carbon rack. You then lower the back of the bag and use some steel pins to secure the bag to the rack. Over the course of my trip the pins seemed to become more and more difficult to line up. There are little rubber washers between the rack and the bag that seemingly got caught up everytime I mounted the bag. Once the bag was mounted however, I felt comfortable enough in its security to ride up any mountain.

I won't sugar coat this one—the trunk bag needs some iteration. The entire thing feels like it's a quality engineered product and works well, but there seem to be some simple mistakes in its design that prevent it from being amazing. The compression straps cross over the side access zippers, straps can get caught in the front hook while mounting, and needing to pack your gear in the rear to clear your saddle seem like easily fixable challenges. 

#### SL10 Mini-Panniers 

The star of the show, however, were the 10L mini-panniers. Like the trunk bag, the mini-panniers boast fully welded seams and are 100% waterproof. These panniers are hands down the best panniers I have ever used to date. There was so much to love about them. Mounting was a breeze with Tailfins XClamp, a fully alloy clamp that locked the pannier super securely to the carbon rack. Even when full of dust and dirt the XClamp seemed to work great and again no lateral motion or rattling of any sort.

The mini-panniers come with additional compression straps that could be used to secure the bags in two different ways. I ended up not using the straps. The material was stiff enough that they kept their shape even when not fully loaded. I LOVE this. The bags don't suffer that empty-bag-icitis look of being totally deflated when not full. My Salsa fork bags on the other hand look sad unless there's enough food in them to look happy.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/tailfin/tailfin-panniers.jpg", "alt": "tailfin panniers", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/tailfin/pannier-mounts.jpg", "alt": "pannier mounts", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/tailfin/xclamp.jpg", "alt": "tailfin xclamp", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/tailfin/xclamp-on-rack.jpg", "alt": "xclamp on rack", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

My only critique of the panniers is that I would love them to have a hard bottom in order to stand when off the bike. I have come to love this little feature about my Salsa bags as it makes them super easy to load and unload on any surface. But—I admit—this is me looking for problems. I absolutely loved the panniers on this trip and will continue to use them for a long time.

#### Wrapping Up

There's a lot to love about the Tailfin system. You can feel the engineering and quality in every aspect of the product. Tailfin tests the system to ISO standards and offers a 5 year warranty which gives riders a lot of confidence in its durability. I don't think I have ever had a rear-system that I trusted as much as the Tailfin. 

I will continue to use the rack and mini-panniers in my regular setup from now on. However, I still feel that the trunk bag needs some work. Having spent many years as a product designer, it feels like the challenges of the trunk bag are easy to spot but are ultimately fixable with accessories or a new iteration in the future. I would definitely be interested in trying it with the extended seat post connector—and I'd update this article.

That said, I love what Tailfin is doing. They are thinking in new ways and building on old technologies to deliver completely new products. I am not sure if many companies could pull off this level of innovation and engineering as well as Tailfin. Working to create products at this level of quality requires integrity and rigor. I am a fan of Tailfin and will be watching every move they make with interest.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/tailfin/barrys-setup-with-tailfin.jpg", "alt": "barrys setup with tailfin", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

We took Tailfin's flagship products—the Carbon Rack, the AP20 Trunk Bag and 10L mini-panniers for a 400km boot around Northern Vancouver Island.

Tailfin Carbon Rack, Trunk Bag & Mini-Panniers Review

In 2017, <a href="https://www.tailfin.cc" target="_blank">Tailfin</a> started as a Kickstarter project and has since become one of the most interesting bikepacking companies. They prioritize R&D, engineering, and design to deliver some of the highest quality products we have had the pleasure of testing. We took their flagship products—the Carbon Rack, the AP20 Trunk Bag, and 10L mini-panniers—for a 400km boot around Northern Vancouver Island.

Founded by Mountain Bike Magazine in 2013, <a href="https://www.mountainbike-testival.de/" target="_blank">Testival</a> has become something of a fixed point in the European mountain biking schedule. If you haven't heard of it, Testival is a festival in <a href="https://www.brixen.org/en/exploring-the-great-outdoors/bike/mountainbike-testival" target="_blank">Brixen, South Tyrol</a>, where people can test (get it...Testival?!) the latest bikes and accessories like helmets, gloves and everything else. For a few days every autumn, the center of Brixen transforms into a huge exhibition with the obvious big players like Giant, Rocky Mountain, Scott and Santa Cruz offering their newest models for free test rides. However, there are also smaller and local brands that show off their latest stuff. This is what excites me.

Brixen is a mountain bikers paradise known for its mild and sunny autumns with the Dolomites around the corner. During Testival, one can borrow a bike for a few hours (an adequate time for a test ride) and be on the trails within a few minutes. The atmosphere, the trails, the mountains, the sunshine, the bikes, the entire experience gets me too excited—and that's how I wiped out. I was too busy being thrilled that I lost control and bam… my head was ringing. The helmet I was wearing at the time was finished and got its rightful place on my wall! I couldn't imagine what a crash like that would have been without a helmet.

Even when a helmet does not show any obvious signs of damage it may have micro fractures in its inner structure that weaken overall integrity of the helmet. Thus, I found myself needing a new helmet. At the time, many of my friends were wearing the <a href="https://www.bikeradar.com/reviews/helmets/mountain-bike-helmets/ixs-trail-rs-evo-helmet-review/" target="_blank">iXS Trail RS</a> and recommended that I join the club. At Testival, I went searching for the iXS booth. The brand rep suggested I try a newer model—the award-winning <a href="https://bit.ly/3pjQeei" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">Trigger AM</a>. I was immediately impressed with the Trigger, the fresh new colors were pleasing and the magnetic buckle made me smile. I tried a few other helmets from other brands, but in the end the Trigger had me intrigued.

#### The Trigger Look

The Trigger AM has that form follows function and classic yet modern design that might be subjective, even polarizing for some riders. Kind of like buying new sunglasses, something that looks great on your buddy may not look so hot on you. However, the helmet doesn't look outdated nor too futuristic. As Goldilocks would say, just right. Oh, and it also won a prestigious <a href="https://design-innovation-award.com/winner/ixs-trigger-am/" target="_blank">design and innovation award</a> after its release in 2019. So ya, there's that.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/ixstrigger/trigger-am-sideview.jpg", "alt": "trigger am sideview", "width": "1600", "height" :"1070"},{"src": "/products/ixstrigger/trigger-in-grass.jpg", "alt": "trigger in grass", "width": "1600", "height" :"1070"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/ixstrigger/trigger-am-visor.jpg", "alt": "trigger am visor", "width": "1600", "height" :"1070"},]},] }} />

#### The Trigger Fit &amp; Feel

Overall, the Trigger AM feels great. The straps and harness system are comfortable and easy to adjust. The magnetic Fidlock buckle, my favorite feature, is a breeze to use even while flying down a mountain with gloves on. The helmet comes with the iXS ErgoFit Ultra system, which helps riders easily adjust fit vertically and horizontally. Simple clips on the inside of the helmet help adjust vertically, which becomes the baseline adjustment and can also be fine tuned with an indexed ratchet wheel on the back once wearing the helmet.

The Trigger sports a lower back side to offer more protection. However, it does seem like the backing could be even lower for additional protection when shredding down gnarlier trails. But, I find myself riding those hardcore lines less and less nowadays, so this is not a deal breaker for me. I have to admit that sometimes the slightly lowered front does feel uncomfortable. If you are into full-on enduro style riding, the <a href="https://www.giro.com/p/tyrant-mips-mountain-bike-helmet/100000000500000086.html" target="_blank">Giro Tyrant</a> or the <a href="https://bit.ly/3Qued6t" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">Fox Dropframe</a> might be better options but both of these come at the price of reduced ventilation and increased weight.

Even the best technology has limits. It's best to take your time and choose a model that fits your head properly. Especially, since the Trigger only comes in two sizes. My head measures 57cm and the size SM (54 -58cm) fits me perfectly.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/ixstrigger/trigger-backside.jpg", "alt": "trigger backside", "width": "1600", "height" :"1070"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/ixstrigger/trigger-detail.jpg", "alt": "trigger detail", "width": "1600", "height" :"1070"},{"src": "/products/ixstrigger/inside-adjustment.jpg", "alt": "inside adjustment", "width": "1600", "height" :"1070"},{"src": "/products/ixstrigger/ratchet-wheel.jpg", "alt": "ratchet wheel", "width": "1600", "height" :"1070"},]},] }} />

I spend about 60% of my cycling time on a gravel bike and about 40% on my mountain bike, which means I tend to prefer lighter road-style helmets. Technically, the Trigger is significantly heavier (size SM w/o MIPS: 360g) than a “roadie” helmet, but once you put it on that weight difference almost disappears. And to be fair, for a trail helmet its weight is reasonable.

With 19 ventilation channels it offers rather good airflow which makes it comfortable even while climbing on hot days. With an additional merino hat, it could also make an excellent choice for colder days.

#### 3-Level Adjustable Visor

Visors on mountain bike helmets are intended to provide protection for your eyes and face from the sunlight, rain and branches. They have become a design feature that helps distinguish the roadies from the trail shredders. The Trigger's visor is well integrated into the overall design and not awkwardly huge like on some other helmets.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/ixstrigger/side-view.jpg", "alt": "side view", "width": "1600", "height" :"1070"}}} />

The visor is one of the more visible features of the Trigger. Three adjustable levels allow riders to adjust for different lighting conditions and to make room for goggles. These levels seem reasonable to me and iXS offers replacement lids for a few bucks in the event of breakage. Like with all helmets, it would be a good idea to wear your favorite goggles and/or glasses when trying the fit since they could interfere with the helmet.

#### Oh.. and MIPS

At its introduction in 2019, the Trigger AM, like its sibling the TrailRS, came without MIPS. In the unlikely case you have never heard of <a href="https://mipsprotection.com/" target="_blank">MIPS</a>, it stands for multi-directional impact protection system. In a crash, MIPS allows the head to move relative to the helmet to reduce rotational impact. This is a total game changer in helmet safety and an absolute must for anyone buying a helmet nowadays. The newest iteration of the Trigger is available with and without MIPS.

#### Wrapping Up

My crash at Testival still lives in my head and has made me more thoughtful about what makes a good helmet and what doesn't. A helmet is more than a vital piece of kit, it's a literal life-saver and after a year of usage, I have come to trust the Trigger AM...dramatic voice...with my life.

The production quality of the Trigger is excellent. If you dig that stylish but classic look and good ventilation in a comfortable package, you can't go wrong with the Trigger AM. Unfortunately, the first generation that I purchased did not come with MIPS. It will soon be <a href="https://bit.ly/3pockfv" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">replaced by a MIPS-helmet</a>, and a newer MIPS Trigger is high on the list.

The latest model sells for $199 USD / $250 CAD / €189 with MIPS and $159 / $200 CAD / €139 without MIPS. Get it <a href="https://bit.ly/3pjQeei" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">here</a>.

After a crash at Testival in Brixen, Italy, Gerald found himself in need of a new helmet and he landed on the iXS Trigger AM.

iXS Trigger AM Long-Term Review

In 2019, <a href="https://ixs.com" target="_blank">iXS</a> launched its <a href="https://bit.ly/3pjQeei" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">Trigger AM</a> helmet—a mid-level helmet aimed at trail riders. After a crash at Testival in Brixen, Italy, Gerald found himself in need of a new helmet and landed on the Trigger AM. He has been wearing the Trigger for the past year while gravel grinding and hitting his local mtb trails.

If you (somehow) haven't heard of them, Curve Cycling is a team of adventure cyclists from Melbourne, Australia who design a full range of products. The core idea behind their Walmer Bar was to combine flat MTB bars with drop bars creating one hybrid bar—although it's something of a trend these days, it was unique and fresh when Curve introduced the bars three years ago. The Walmers have the stability and control of MTB bars, but also offer the multi-hand positions of drop bars. With a 29° flare for better control during fast off-roading, the bar is ideal for almost anything.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/curvewalmer/side-view.jpg", "alt": "walmer bar side view", "width": "1600", "height" :"1063"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/curvewalmer/walmer-detail.jpg", "alt": "walmer detail", "width": "1600", "height" :"1063"},{"src": "/products/curvewalmer/walmer-bridge.jpg", "alt": "walmer bridge", "width": "1600", "height" :"1063"},{"src": "/products/curvewalmer/you-are-here.jpg", "alt": "you are here", "width": "1600", "height" :"1063"},]},] }} />

The Walmer bars were named for <a href="https://streets-alive-yarra.org/walmer-street-bridge/" target="_blank">a (very) narrow pedestrian/cycling bridge</a> in Melbourne. At the initial launch, there were only four sizes available: 46cm, 50cm, 55cm and 60cm. With the increasing popularity of endurance road and gravel grinding, Curve added narrower versions of 40cm and 43cm with BP versions providing wider central oversized sections for more mounting spaces. The Walmer is made from 6066 alloy designed with 7° sweep and 29° flare. The drop section is 110mm and the reaching part is 60-65mm.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/curvewalmer/bars-with-tape.jpg", "alt": "bars with tape", "width": "1600", "height" :"1063"}}} />

#### Introducing Unstable Immu

For the past two years, I have been running the 55cm Walmer Bar Walmer bars on my Surly Bridge Club and have done some serious distance with them. My main style of riding is off-road bikepacking trips through the jungles near Chiang Mai but I still run the bars for short rides and cafe hopping near my home in Bangkok. My current setup includes a <a href="https://www.buffalobagth.com/store/p/bigbuffalo-xpac" target="_blank">X-Pac Big Buffalo Bag</a> (size M, 26L) and two <a href="https://www.buffalobagth.com/store/p/bufftank" target="_blank">Buff Tanks</a> strapped to the Walmer. Just in case you're wondering, and I know you are, I run 27.5x2.22 tires.

At first sight the Walmers are almost weird and awkward. Hah! Yes! It's ok to admit this. However, once I put them on the bike and started pedaling, a love affair started. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/curvewalmer/cockpit.jpg", "alt": "cockpit", "width": "1600", "height" :"1063"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/curvewalmer/rear-view.jpg", "alt": "Immus setup rear view", "width": "1063", "height" :"1600"},{"src": "/products/curvewalmer/immus-setup.jpg", "alt": "immus setup", "width": "1063", "height" :"1600"},]},] }} />

My first observation after riding with the Walmer bar was how impressed I was with the stability they offered, especially when descending technical routes that would normally require MTB bars. My cycling mates know me as “Unstable Immu”, because I am always accidentally choosing the wrong line on technical or off-road routes. The shallow drop, short reach and flared lower drop really helped me find my balance and roll up the technical climbs. The 29° flare allows me to use more fingers while gripping the brifter for better control. In the sense of body anatomy, the flared and wider bars provide better balance through your chest and back leading to a more relaxed ride. And my friends, well, they don't call me “Unstable Immu” anymore ;)

#### Getting the Right Walmer

There is a lot to love about the Walmer bar but there is also a lot to consider before deciding if they are right for you. For example, the widest version (55 or 60cm) has a hard time in narrow spaces and might be a safety concern while riding in traffic. The bar is also designed for adventure bikes that normally have long top tubes, so you may need to adjust your setup to accommodate—for example, the stem length or saddle position, in order to fit with your arm reach and ensure a comfortable position.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/curvewalmer/immu-on-dock.jpg", "alt": "immu on dock", "width": "1600", "height" :"1063"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/curvewalmer/immu.jpg", "alt": "immu", "width": "1063", "height" :"1600"},{"src": "/products/curvewalmer/immu-with-surly.jpg", "alt": "immu with surly", "width": "1063", "height" :"1600"},{"src": "/products/curvewalmer/surly-bridge-club.jpg", "alt": "surly bridge club", "width": "1063", "height" :"1600"},]},] }} />

Most riders who focus on single track or wild routes and need more control would be fine using a 50-60cm width bar. Those who hit the gravel and road may want to consider the 40, 43 and 46 BP options. Your tire size would also be a consideration, and if you are running anything over 2.5” width, you probably would be safe with the 55-60cm versions for better control and more stability. If possible, I suggest trying to find a set to grip the bar first and ask yourself if you like the feel or not.

To keep it all easy, Curve suggested the following: 40 and 43 BP suits endurance road and light gravel riding. For gravel grinding and bikepacking, 46 and 50 BP. And finally, for drop-bar MTB, off-road touring and fat-tire bikepacking rigs, go for the 55 and 60 BP.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/curvewalmer/parked-sulry.jpg", "alt": "parked sulry", "width": "1600", "height" :"1063"}}} />

#### Wrapping Up

The Walmer Bar has really improved my rides when I go out cycling in the wilderness—it provides more control and stability than any other bar I have tried. Keep in mind, the key to enjoying your Walmer is selecting the perfect width. If you can, ask your local Curve distributor before finalizing your selection.

The current price of the Walmer Bar is $127 USD / $164 CAD / $199 AUD, which includes anti-slip and 3.2mm thick shock reduction bar tape. Get it <a href="https://www.curvecycling.com.au/products/walmer-bars" target="_blank">here</a>.

Curve Cyling introduced its notoriously wide Walmer Dropbar in 2019. Our long-term review discusses what the bars do well and how to choose the right width. Don't miss it.

Curve Walmer Bar Long-Term Review

In 2019, <a href="https://www.curvecycling.com.au/" target="_blank">Curve Cyling</a> from Melbourne introduced its notoriously wide <a href="https://www.curvecycling.com.au/products/walmer-bars" target="_blank">Walmer Dropbar</a>. The bar is one of the most unique products in the Curve Cycling lineup. For the past two years, our newest contributor, Immu, has been running the bars and has a lot to say about them. Let's go.

Handlebar bags aren't for everyone. If you are counting grams and shaving them off wherever you can, you're probably not going to be looking for a large bar bag. Certainly not one as big as the Chrome Industries Doubletrack Handlebar Sling.

For me, riding my bike is as much about the adventure as it is the cycling. Getting lost in the lanes, stopping to take photographs, making a coffee, and writing in my journal are all things I prefer to do by bike. If you are someone who doesn't track times and prefers a slower pace, then the Chrome Doubletrack may become your favorite bike accessory. For me, a decently sized bar bag has become somewhat of a necessity.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/chromedoubletrack/pedal-slip-bike.jpg", "alt": "pedal slip bike", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

#### Room for Zoom

The Doubletrack is technically a 5L bag (9” x 9” x 4.5” / 22cm x 22cm x 11cm), but feels much larger. There is enough room for my Canon R5 mirrorless camera and a lens; in fact, depending on the lens I choose, sometimes there's even room for two. More often than not, I keep the camera stowed away safely in the Doubletrack, strapped to my bars where I can see it. It took me some time to trust the bag with my camera gear, but it's been entirely reliable and I don't even think twice about loading it up now.

The bag has three key fastenings which attach it to the bike: two robust velcro loops for the bars, and a webbing loop with a clip around the headtube. Where the Doubletrack really shines is when I get off the bike at randon coffee stops. Whip the velcro off, unclick the clip, and it's now a sling to throw over your shoulder. Stored in the rear of the bag are two longer straps which quickly turn the bag into something you can take with you wherever you go. Whether it is holding my camera or that new jacket I just bought, the Doubletrack allows me to keep my belongings close while out on a ride, and that brings me peace of mind.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/chromedoubletrack/mud-on-bag.jpg", "alt": "mud on bag", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/chromedoubletrack/gloves-in-bag.jpg", "alt": "gloves in bag", "width": "1067", "height" :"1600"},{"src": "/products/chromedoubletrack/open-bag.jpg", "alt": "open bag", "width": "1067", "height" :"1600"},]},] }} />

#### Simple &amp; Functional

Chrome does simplicity and functionality very well, so it was no surprise that they'd made use of a magnetic buckle for the fastening of the bag. The magnetic buckle gives you quick access to the enormous main pocket (which has two internal mesh pockets), even while riding. A simple double roll and it's closed again, the magnetic fastener clicking into place on its own. Your ride snacks, a gilet, gloves, or anything else you might want on hand can be stored in the bag so you don't have to stop and go rummaging. There is an additional mesh side pocket that has no fancy magnets or roll closings, but you can throw your keys, a couple of gel wrappers, or something like that in there.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/chromedoubletrack/pedal-slip-on-bike.jpg", "alt": "pedal slip on bike", "width": "1067", "height" :"1600"},{"src": "/products/chromedoubletrack/pedal-slip.jpg", "alt": "pedal slip", "width": "1067", "height" :"1600"},]},] }} />

As with anything from Chrome Industries, the Doubletrack Handlebar Sling is about as robust and durable as they come. Made from 1050D Nylon and 1000D TPE Tarp on the outer, and lined with 70D Poly, it's tough. I've taken this bag over rocky trails in the <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/Kz8BAmWLq4zVS7DC9" target="_blank">Peak District</a>, and through woodlands in wet conditions, and still it continues to look new after a quick brush down at the end of each ride. Provided I've fastened the bag with a double fold, it keeps showers out, and the clever use of reinforcement on the bottom of the bag means there's no water ingress either.

#### That Look

Bags are often either hit or miss in terms of aesthetics. The folks at Chrome have done an excellent job of preventing the Doubletrack being clunky or obstructive. It sits nicely between the drops and doesn't get in the way of shifting at all. As with all their gear, the simple and minimal design favours functionality without unnecessary bells and whistles. It looks as good as it functions.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/chromedoubletrack/pedal-slipping-away.jpg", "alt": "lew cycling", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

#### Wrapping Up

When I head out on the mountain bike, I always choose a backpack. But these days the Doubletrack Handlebar Sling is my go-to when heading out on the gravel bike. Of course, there are limitations to any bar bag, but this one takes care of the most common gripes I have. 

At $65USD (£63GBP/$85CAD), it sits right in the 'reliable but not budget' category. Of course, there are far more expensive options out there, but Chrome seems to understand what value is. The bag does what it's supposed to. I couldn't think of a more suitable bar bag for the value than the Chrome Industries Doubletrack Handlebar Sling.

Get it <a href="https://bit.ly/3QxxUt2" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">here</a>.

In 2020, Chrome Industries introduced the Doubletrack Handlebar Sling—a bag designed for day riders that require quick access and the ability to remove and carry it off the bike.

Chrome Industries Doubletrack Handlebar Sling Review

In 2020, <a href="https://bit.ly/3L3hNTh" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">Chrome Industries</a> introduced the <a href="https://bit.ly/3QxxUt2" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">Doubletrack Handlebar Sling</a>—a bag designed for day riders that require quick access to essentials, as well as the ability to remove and carry it off the bike. We have been running the bag for the past 4 months and have grown to trust and even love it. Follow along.

Sometimes off the shelf gear just doesn't cut it. Find the right ultralight gear maker in this list.

22 Ultralight Gear Makers for Bikepacking

Sometimes off-the-shelf gear just doesn't cut it. That's ok, because there is a whole world of ultra-lightweight gear makers out there creating some incredible stuff. Whether you are looking to get a custom tarp made, or an ultra lightweight hammock, chances are you'll find the right company below.

We recently tried out the Arkel 15L Rollpacker—an integrated seat pack and alloy rack system that frankly, blew us away.

Arkel 15L Rollpacker Seatbag System Review

Hailing from Sherbrooke, Quebec, <a href="https://bit.ly/3T6Bk8H" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">Arkel</a> is one of Canada's oldest bike bag makers and has been in operation since the late 80's. We recently tried out their <a href="https://bit.ly/3ApFdyc" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">15L Rollpacker</a>—an integrated seat pack and alloy rack system that, frankly, blew us away.

The SwitchGrade is a simple idea that deserves a lot of attention. It gives riders the ability to adjust saddle angle on the fly.

Aenomaly Constructs SwitchGrade Review

The SwitchGrade is the first product by <a href="https://www.aenomalyconstructs.com/" target="_blank">Aenomaly Constructs</a> from Vancouver, Canada. Created by Noel Dolotallas, the SwitchGrade is a simple idea that deserves a lot of attention, as it introduces a whole new facet to cycling—the ability to adjust saddle angle on the fly.

I bought an <a href="https://www.apidura.com/shop/expedition-bolt-on-top-tube-pack/" target="_blank">Apidura Expedition</a> top bar bag three years ago on the spot, with zero research and big expectations. The bag was an early <a href="https://www.apidura.com/shop/expedition-top-tube-pack/" target="_blank">velcro version</a> of the Expedition, and over the past few years it has become more of a constant than the bikes it's been riding on. I love it and have put it through some serious usage.

My original Expedition held up brilliantly until one day last summer, when the zipper blew up on a bikepacking trip in the middle of nowhere. Although not entirely unexpected, I tweeted about it (as you do), and (happily) I promptly got a reply from Apidura. They told me they would be happy to fix it through their <a href="https://revive.apidura.com/" target="_blank">Revive Program</a>. I sent the old bag to them in London which they then repaired and sent back to me. The zipper worked as good as new. Experiencing the Revive Program made me an even bigger fan of the company. There aren't many brands out there that would miss an opportunity to sell you more stuff.

> Experiencing the Revive Program made a fan out of me. There aren't many companies out there that would miss an opportunity to sell you more stuff.

When I recently got a new gravel bike with top tube mounts, I was sure I wanted another Apidura top tube bag for it. I also knew that Apidura had updated the product over the past few years and was excited when they agreed to send me the updated bolt-on Expedition.

#### Form Factor
Compared with the old bag, the updated Bolt-on Expedition is slightly larger, however, it has retained its sleek and narrow form. The bag's actual dimensions are 23.5 x 10 cm (9.3 x 3.9 in) and weighs in at 110g. The Expedition may only be 4.5 cm (1.77 in) wide, but it comfortably fits everything I carry on a regular day ride, including a thin power bank, phone, keys, protein bar, airpods and a usb cable. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/apidura-expedition/apidura-expedition-old-new.jpeg", "alt": "apidura expedition old new", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/apidura-expedition/expedition-interior.jpeg", "alt": "expedition interior", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/apidura-expedition/top-tube-bag.jpeg", "alt": "top tube bag", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Fully Waterproof
As with all Apidura products, the bag is 100% waterproof with welded seams and an aquaguard zipper. The bag protects your valuables through a proprietary three-layer laminate fabric. This is an absolute must for me, as winters here on Vancouver Island see a lot of rain. My past Apidura bags have really lived up to the water challenge.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/apidura-expedition/apidura-expedition-shadow.jpeg", "alt": "apidura expedition shadow", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/apidura-expedition/zipper.jpeg", "alt": "apidura expedition zipper", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/apidura-expedition/zipper-cord.jpeg", "alt": "apidura expedition zipper cord", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Toolless Mounting
The Expedition is a quick and easy install. The bolts that Apidura provides are made out of plastic, which seems a bit odd to me. (It's unclear if these plastic bolts are a cost saving tactic or if plastic is actually better for carbon frames.) When I bolted the Expedition onto my frame the plastic bolts almost cross-threaded in my steel frame. No biggie—if this had happened, I would have swapped back to metal bolts and washers. Lastly, it comes with a handy liner for the inside of the bag; this lines the bottom and hides the bolts to keep the inside nice and orderly.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/apidura-expedition/apidura-brand-color.jpeg", "alt": "apidura bradnd color", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/apidura-expedition/bolt-on-profile.jpeg", "alt": "bolt on profile", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Card Holders... Maybe?
While digging around in the bag, I was happy to discover two secret inner side pockets. I couldn't find any info on the pockets (I suppose secret pockets should be kept secret), but they feel a little too intentional to be accidental. This is a huge upgrade from my old bag. These liner pockets are great for any thin valuables you might need to carry with you, like bank or credit cards. I can't count the number of times I have put my bank card into my bag, only for it to get stuck to my phone and dropped at rest points. Luckily, I have never lost a card, and with these new pockets, my winning streak will likely continue. LOVE these. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/apidura-expedition/secret-pocket.jpeg", "alt": "secret pocket", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Cable Port
The Expedition has a cable port at the front of the bag allowing you to power your computer or phone from a power bank in the bag. This has become pretty standard for top tube bags over the past few years, but it's new to me and is a huge upgrade for my setup. No more hiding my computer in a bag waiting for it to charge.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/apidura-expedition/cable-port.jpeg", "alt": "cable port", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Wrapping Up

Overall, the Bolt-On Expedition feels great for day-long gravel rides or longer multi-day bikepacking trips. And like most Apidura products, the Expedition bag looks sharp. For $68USD / $87CAD the bag is a no-brainer. When you factor in Apidura's lifetime warranty through its <a href="https://revive.apidura.com/" target="_blank">Revive Program</a>, the deal gets even sweeter. 

I have high expectations for this Expedition, and certainly hope it lasts as long as my old velcro version.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/apidura-expedition/apidura-logo.jpeg", "alt": "apidura logo", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

Apidura sent us an upgraded version of one of our favorite bags ever—the top bar Expedition.

Apidura Expedition Bolt-On Top Bar Bag Review

<a href="https://www.apidura.com/" target="_blank">Apidura</a> is one of the most recognizable bikepacking bag brands on earth. They are a small team from London, UK, and they believe that bags should be built to last. They sent us an upgraded version of one of our favorite bags ever—the top bar Expedition.

Dropper posts seem to be everywhere these days and cross all genres of cycling from mountain biking into gravel (sure) and into <a href="https://www.bikeradar.com/features/pro-bike/matej-mohoric-dropper-post/" target="_blank">road racing </a> (wha?!). Even with this level of ubiquity, it took me two full years of thought and research (errr, procrastination) to finally join the dropper post crowd. On my local loop I have a few loose chunky gravel descents and I have come close to flying over my handlebars more than once. 

Apart from the obvious benefit of not using my face as a brake pad, I have been putting thought into using a dropper post to adjust my riding position. Bikepacking has us spending huge days in the saddle with heavy bag laden bikes. Like office ergonomics, should we as bikepackers be adjusting our positions and postures frequently to avoid injury and pain? 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/pnwloam/full-loam-kit.jpeg", "alt": "full loam kit", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/pnwloam/loam-level-in-box.jpeg", "alt": "loam level in box", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/pnwloam/loam-post-box.jpeg", "alt": "loam post box", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/pnwloam/pnw-squad.jpeg", "alt": "pnw squad", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

There are a bunch of manufacturers out there building droppers including Fox, RockShox, OneUp and BikeYoke. I ended up choosing the Loam post from Seattle-based PNW. PNW has an entire lineup of products and components including pedals, bars, apparel and more. Out of all the brands, they seemed to have the largest line of dropper posts including suspension posts, externally and internally routed droppers and even a kids post. PNW was the path forward. 

I chose the Loam with 125mm travel and matching lever, because well, why wouldn't you?

#### Specs &amp; Features

The Loam is available in 4 travel options 125mm, 1500mm, 170mm, and for you uber tall folk a 200mm. They are also available in 3 seat-post diameters including 30.9mm, 31.66mm and 34.9mm. The posts are cable-actuated and work with all cable friendly levers from other brands. 

<table>
 <tr>
 <th></th>
 <th>125mm</th>
 <th>150mm</th>
 <th>170mm</th>
 <th>200mm</th>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>Seat Collar to Center of Rails</td>
 <td>170mm</td>
 <td>200mm</td>
 <td>220mm</td>
 <td>250mm</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>Total Length</td>
 <td>385mm</td>
 <td>440mm</td>
 <td>480mm</td>
 <td>540mm</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>Min. Insertion Length</td>
 <td>90mm</td>
 <td>90mm</td>
 <td>120mm</td>
 <td>145mm</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>Full Insertion Length</td>
 <td>215mm</td>
 <td>240mm</td>
 <td>260mm</td>
 <td>290mm</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>30.9 ⌀ Weight </td>
 <td>456g</td>
 <td>504g</td>
 <td>532g</td>
 <td>576g</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>31.6 ⌀ Weight </td>
 <td>474g</td>
 <td>524g</td>
 <td>554g</td>
 <td>598g</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>34.9 ⌀ Weight </td>
 <td>576g</td>
 <td>638g</td>
 <td>674g</td>
 <td>734g</td>
 </tr>
</table>

##### Quick Adjust
One super neat feature of the Loam is that it allows riders to adjust the dropper's maximum height on the fly and without the need of any tools. By unscrewing the collar midcap, you have access to a white shim that can be turned to adjust the max height by up to 25mm. This came in super handy for me on my first ride with the Loam, when I realized my max height was slightly. too. high. ow. ugh. Check out this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uLxQn0sJHo&amp;t=56s" target="_blank">video</a> that shows off the quick adjustment in detail.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/pnwloam/loam-midcap.jpeg", "alt": "loam midcap", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

##### Silicone Color Band
The Loam has a swappable color band that allows you to customize the post's look. On the surface this may scream as some sort of silly customization feature that allows you to express yourself... or whatever. However, I did not choose a color and opted for a black band while ordering. I am not exactly sure why, but I simply couldn't make a choice before hitting BUY. Now I regret it. The post looks great but these little color touches actually add some zing to the look of the post and if done properly could match your bike's highlight color. Alas, it's not an issue as PNW <a href="https://www.pnwcomponents.com/collections/shop-all-droppers/products/loam-dropper-silicone-band" target="_blank">offers the bands</a> independent of the posts. I will for sure be replacing my black band in the near future.

#### Installation

Notgonnalie, I was a bit intimidated before installing the Loam. I have recabled my bike many times before but this was the first time I've ever routed anything internally. That said, the installation of the post and lever was a breeze. If you have ever recabled anything you should be more than comfy installing a dropper post, internal or otherwise. PNW makes it super easy and has made some <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O169WrcTddI" target="_blank">excellent videos</a> walking you through the entire process.

#### Aller, Aller, Aller

With the post installed and adjusted it was time to shred. On the first ride, I couldn't stop playing with it. Adjusting to dynamic seat height is more than a novelty, it's damn fun.

The biggest shift has obviously come in how I approach and handle descents. Before the post, I was keeping my brakes engaged on chonky hills and releasing the brakes only when I felt comfy for a very slow roll down. I was also very used to having the seat in between my legs and using it as a lateral stabilizer.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/pnwloam/barry-on-dropper.jpeg", "alt": "barry on dropper", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/pnwloam/loam-lever.jpeg", "alt": "loam lever", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/pnwloam/lever-press.jpeg", "alt": "lever press", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

The problem with this seat stabilization is two fold, it keeps your center of gravity high and over the front end of the bike and it ensures the bike is always headed in a straight (ish) line which isn't always helpful when speeding down loose gravel drops. 

However, having the seat between my legs did help me feel connected to the bike and ultimately to the ground. Dropper posts remove the seat from the equation and that has changed how I move my body over the bike. Pushing all your weight lower and towards the back of the bike gives one the feeling of being a snake sliding over the rocks. Now that my thighs weren't holding the seat and bike straight, I was able to turn more fluidly and slither over pretty much anything. My body and bike felt separated and that is a huge change. 

From the words above you may realize that I'm not an enduro mountain biker. I have always been more interested in distance and adventure than technical trail grinding. However, the Loam gave me the confidence to push my comfort zone a bit further. I ended up climbing a few larger rock outcrops and flowed down them with confidence. What. A. Feeling.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/pnwloam/hill1.jpeg", "alt": "hill one with loam", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/pnwloam/hill2.jpeg", "alt": "hill two with loam", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/pnwloam/hill3.jpeg", "alt": "hill three with loam", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/pnwloam/hill4.jpeg", "alt": "hill four with loam", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

The post and lever work as promised. I struggle to find any cons with them. My only concern was after installation, I felt a little bit of wiggle in the post. At first, I thought that I hadn't tightened the clamp on the seat rails properly but it was a small amount of give in the post itself. It was a bit of a surprise but I didn't notice the wiggle on the bike and it made absolutely no impact on the performance of the post.

#### Do I need a dropper post for bikepacking?

As with most gear related questions the answer really depends on the type of riding you do while backpacking. If you are touring on gravel roads probably not. But if you're like me, and like to get into the singletrack while fully bagged out, you may want to consider moving to a dropper. However, you may need to make a few tweaks to your setup to accommodate.

##### Dropper Post Friendly Bags
The biggest change to your setup may be your saddle bag. You will need a bag that attaches much higher on the seat post to allow for the travel of the post. Obviously, anything that attaches too low will hinder the post's ability to drop. Nowadays, many bag manufacturers design bags for this exact use case. You can find a very thorough list of dropper compatible bags at <a href="https://bikepacking.com/gear/dropper-post-seat-bags/" target="_blank">bikepacking.com</a>.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/pnwloam/bag-on-krampus.jpeg", "alt": "bag on krampus", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/pnwloam/pnw-logo.jpeg", "alt": "pnw logo", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/pnwloam/krampus-ready.jpeg", "alt": "krampus ready", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/pnwloam/outer-shell-on-pnw.jpeg", "alt": "outer shell on pnw", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

I borrowed a nifty little dropper post friendly bag from a friend here in Victoria named <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/sirbikesalot" target="_blank">Sir Bikes A Lot</a>. The loaner bag was from Outer Shell, a custom handmade bag maker from San Francisco. I wasn't able to give the <a href="https://outershell.com/" target="_blank">Outer Shell</a> a proper multi day test or anything but had it strapped to the Loam for an afternoon's ride. The bag was great and did its job although it did attach to the seat post a bit lower than I would have liked. 

Another idea might be to swap out your saddle bag completely in favor of a T-Rack and mini-panniers. Personally, over the years, I have lost my patience with saddlebags and this season I will be moving to a carbon rack and mini-pannier <a href="https://www.tailfin.cc/product/pannier-racks/carbon-racks/carbon-rack/?v=3e8d115eb4b3" target="_blank">setup from Tailfin</a>. Full review coming soon :)

##### Multimodality
Back to the idea of the ergonomics of long distance off-road cycling. I'm no expert by any means but the idea of dynamically adjusting seat post height seems solid. I was making micro adjustments to the height every 5km or so to see how it would feel. The adjustments ended up allowing me to take pressure off my lower back and even use different leg muscles as I pedaled.

In the end, it felt great and I didn't experience any discomfort over 65km of chonk. If you take that same idea and multiply it over X amount of days and X00s of kms the idea of position adjustment starts making a lot of sense.

#### Wrap Up

I may be new to the dropper post world but it's hard to find any fault with the Loam post and lever. I may revisit this review in the upcoming months but it does exactly as advertised—goes up and down at the press of a lever. Super simple.

In the very least, it's fun. However, this simple idea has made the biggest impact of any new piece of gear on how I ride. The feeling of being behind the bike and lower gives that snake-like feel that also embrews confidence and helps me push into new territory and new terrain.

I'm a dropper-post convert and plan on using this PNW Loam as long as it wants to keep my butt propped and dropped.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/pnwloam/do-bikes.jpeg", "alt": "do bikes", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

We took PNW's Loam dropper post and lever for a test to see how it would affect our riding on local trails and on bigger bikepacking adventures.

PNW Loam Dropper Post & Lever Review

Seattle-based <a href="https://www.pnwcomponents.com/" target="_blank">PNW Components</a> has a philosophy centering on affordable quality components and one of the largest selection of dropper posts out there. We took their new <a href="https://www.pnwcomponents.com/collections/shop-all-droppers/products/loam-dropper-post" target="_blank">Loam dropper post</a> and <a href="https://www.pnwcomponents.com/collections/levers-1/products/loam-lever-dropper-remote" target="_blank">lever</a> for a test to see how it would affect our riding on local trails and on bigger bikepacking adventures.

For most of you, We Are One needs little introduction. Since 2016, We Are One has been crafting some of the best handmade composite wheels on the planet at their HQ in Kamloops, British Columbia. Over the past few years, the company has been making huge strides and growing its product lineup. The recently released <a href="https://www.weareonecomposites.com/the-arrival" target="_blank">Arrival</a> — an enduro machine 100% designed, manufactured, and assembled right here in BC— has cemented We Are One's place in Canadian mountain bike fame. But We Are One didn't go from making wheels to releasing the Arrival overnight. It's been a long and impressive journey.

Along the way, We Are One doubled down and began building out some of its own components. One of those components is a stem and handlebar combo, lovingly called 'Da Package'.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/dapackage/da-package-on-krampus.jpeg", "alt": "da package on krampus", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/dapackage/carbon-bars-with-apidura-bag.jpeg", "alt": "carbon bars with apidura bag", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/dapackage/bike-in-mist.jpeg", "alt": "bike in mist", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

Da Package is a combo of 'Da Stem' and 'Da Bar' (really), and was designed as a single unit with 3 parts: a stem, the bar, and an alloy sleeve or shim. Da Problem is that most stems are not designed specifically with carbon bars in mind, which results in irregular and uneven clamping force. This can lead to harsh contact points between the stem and carbon which eventually leads to wear and potentially catastrophic failure. As they say, “carbon is just a fancy word for plastic” and it makes plain sense to me that the contact point between the two be designed as one. 

We Are One mentions that the alloy shim distributes the clamping force evenly across the carbon, making it much stronger and safer over time. Again, this makes perfect sense. The downside to this is that Da Package can only be used as a complete system. There is no taking Da Package apart and running that Raceface stem that matches your socks. Da Package locks you into the We Are One garden, which actually is a great place to be…

#### The Specs

The stem, bars and shim were designed as a team effort between We Are One and 77 Designs out of Northern Germany. There is no doubt, Da Package is a high, high-end product. All parts of the unit are downhill grade components and 100% hand laid (and made) here in Canada. They are not for the faint of heart.

Da Package comes with few options: two stems lengths (35 and 45mm), and three levels of rise (20, 27.5mm and 35mm).

I can't quite emphasize how light these bars are. Da Bar weighs in at 215g and 12g for the alloy sleeve. Which brings the full unit to a miniscule 320g for the 35mm stem option 338g for the 45mm stem. The hardware on Da Package is of course titanium which obviously makes you faster out there. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/dapackage/bike-in-forest.jpeg", "alt": "bike in forest", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/dapackage/carbon-handlebars.jpeg", "alt": "carbon handlebars", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/dapackage/handlebars-on-hill.jpeg", "alt": "handlebars on hill", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/dapackage/surly-krampus.jpeg", "alt": "surly krampus", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

Da Bar is just that— a bar, with a 5 degree upsweep and an 8 degree backsweep. The bar ships in one length: long—800mm that can be trimmed down to 740mm if that's your thing.

#### The Look

Apparently, Da Package sometimes arrives in a box with a beautiful purple velvet liner. Ours came in a triangle shipping container with some packing paper. I get it… I suspect that We Are One found a bar hanging around the factory floor and sent it over to us. Too bad, I love gear packaging and would have loved to see Da Packaging. Oh well, I was still stoked to try Da Package out.

My first reaction to the bars was a great improvement from my reaction to the packaging: they are stunning. The raw carbon somehow seems to absorb the light around it like a black hole. It takes a few moments to get over how rad they look to realize there is zero branding on them. These bars are an exercise in subtlety whereas most bars are annoyingly <a href="https://www.deitycomponents.com/store/p306/SKYWIRE_CARBON_35_25MM_HANDLEBAR_STORE.html" target="_blank">heavily</a> <a href="https://www.raceface.ca/products/next-bar-31-8" target="_blank">branded</a>.

Because Da Package is created to be a unit, We Are One was able to remove the need for a faceplate completely. The stem reaches over the sleeve and bar and only requires two titanium bolts to fasten the whole thing together. This design decision gives Da Package its iconic pointy look and really makes it stand out.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/dapackage/we-are-one-da-package.jpeg", "alt": "we are one da package", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/dapackage/da-package-no-faceplate.jpeg", "alt": "da package no faceplate", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/dapackage/carbon-bars-close-up.jpeg", "alt": "carbon bars close up", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

My only gripe about the design of Da Package is that I would have loved a stem cap to match the unit. I got lucky when I dropped by my local shop,"' '" <a href="https://www.martysmountaincycle.com/" target="_blank"> Martys Mountain Cycle </a> , and found a pretty awesome, beautifully machined Chromag cap that matched perfectly. Along with some jet black Chromag grips, I was ready to roll. 

#### The Feel

I'm almost embarrassed to admit that I replaced my stock alloy Salsa bars with Da Package. The quality upgrade wasn't one or two steps up, it was 12. For my first ride with Da Package, I hit some new trails that I have never visited called Partridge Hills and headed to a lookout point that overlooks Finlayson Arm here in Victoria. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/dapackage/krampus-on-mountain.jpeg", "alt": "krampus on mountain", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/dapackage/bars-in-the-mist.jpeg", "alt": "bars in the mist", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

The bars felt instantly great. As a rigid rider, I take a lot of shock to the arms and have developed a pretty keen sense of vibration. Da Package was stiff exactly when I needed it to be, but was able to dampen the chonk when necessary. I'll be totally honest here, I am not sure if this comes from We Are One's engineering or the qualities of carbon as a material, or both—but really, who cares. They feel great. 

I had some apprehension about the shallow backsweep and was mentally prepped to feel some discomfort in my wrists. I was surprised when this didn't happen. For the past two years, I have been running bars with 11 degree sweep and did a short sprint on a set of bars with a 22 degree sweep. Turns out, I like shallower sweeps and with the 800mm width the 8 degrees was perfect. 

Through the singletrack, Da Package performed amazingly. The width allowed for precise and responsive movement. Allowing me to micro adjust over anything at super low speeds.

I made a mistake while ordering Da Package. I would have liked a bit more rise in the bars but I won't fault them for my own stupidity. 

#### Wrapping Up

I can't properly vouch for the technical claims that We Are One is making regarding Da Package's performance and durability. However, ignoring these claims would be to ignore some pretty simple logic: that a purposely designed stem and bar combo is better (and safer) than disparate components. I mean, how many people have cracked carbon seat tubes for this very reason? 

At $399 CAD ($299 USD) Da Package is not the cheapest solution on the market. But they look and feel fantastic, allowing you to ride harder for longer, and for me, that's all that matters. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/dapackage/krampus-in-mist.jpeg", "alt": "krampus in mist", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

A rethink on carbon handlebar systems by Canada's We Are One

We Are One "Da Package" Composite Bar Review

<a href="https://www.weareonecomposites.com/" target="_blank">We Are One</a> is a carbon wheel and bike manufacturer in British Columbia, Canada. In 6 years, they have transformed from a wheel builder to one of Canada's most exciting MTB brands. We were lucky to try out their new(ish) handlebar system called Da Package that rethinks how carbon bars and stems integrate.

We did a deep dive into the freshest indie bag makers around the globe, so you don't have to.

18 Bikepacking Bag Makers For 2022

For those of you cycling in the Northern Hemisphere, the 2022 season is kicking off. Chances are you might be thinking about making some updates to your bikepacking setup for the new season. We did a deep dive into the freshest indie bag makers around the globe, so you don't have to.

If you have ever been on a tour or bikepacking trip with me, chances are you know about my love for avocados. Avocados are great to take on a long cycling trip: drop an underripe avocado in your fork bag and give it a few days of bouncing around. Voilà! Ripe avocado treat. A perfect snack on the go to replace fiber, healthy fats, and multitude of vitamins and nutrients. 

As amazing as avocados are, they aren't perfectly packable; and as much as I hate to admit, they can get a little tiresome after 3-4 in a row. Every trip, I do my best to experiment with fresh foods in my bikepacking bags. Call me crazy, but I prefer fresh and healthy foods to highly processed and pre-packaged—both off and on the road. Of course, the ability to carry fresh food is dependent on (and potentially dictated by) your itinerary; but it all begs the question—why do we insist on eating such crap on the road? 

I'll say it: store-bought, freeze-dried backpacking meals are garbage. Too many times I have been backcountry with so many days worth of dehydrated Mexican Rice that I dread actually sitting down to eat. After a hard day in the saddle, it's hard to look forward to eating yet another over-processed, freeze-dried meal. Every trip I ask, why didn't I just work a little harder to bring something fresh and yummy? 

Enter the food pouch. Now, when we started speaking with Big Sky about reviewing one of their products and they suggested their <a href="https://bigskyinternational.com/products/big-sky-insulite-insulated-food-pouch-freezer-bag-cooking-cozy?variant=39581236953134" target="_blank">Insulite Food Pouch</a>. I'll admit, I was a bit disappointed. I was really hoping to review one of their ultra-light tents, not a snack bag. However, I am glad they insisted we review the pouches—they were a completely new piece of gear to me, and have managed to change the food game on my rides. 

#### The Bags

The bags themselves are pretty simple in their design. They weigh a mere 1.5 ounces and are highly packable as they compress down to nothing when not being used. The bags feel super durable, and the insulated, reflective material can take a beating. 

It's probably best to think about the Big Sky pouch as a “thermos” bag—it retains temperature for foods that require cool storage, and also allows for a speedier cooking time for hot foods. You can use them for packing chocolate or energy bars on hot days, or literally anything you need to keep from melting away. The PrimaLoft insulation is constructed from 70% post-consumer recycled content, and every meter of insulation used saves 2.5 plastic bottles from landfill. So you can feel pretty good about the way it's made as well. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/bigskybags/single-serving-size.jpeg", "alt": "single serving size", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/bigskybags/bag-tag.jpeg", "alt": "bag tag", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/bigskybags/fresh-fruit-in-bag.jpeg", "alt": "fresh fruit in bag", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

The bags have a handy freestand construction, which allows for upright cooking, and they come in two sizes. A 25 x 25cm “full meal” version for $15 USD, and a smaller “single serving” size for $14 USD. 

When using the larger “full meal” bag, you can ditch store-bought meal packaging before setting out. This is helpful when meal packaging is made for a backpack, and doesn't fit well into a frame bag, and would also help eliminate some camp garbage that would need to be carried out. Win. 

#### The Cold Test

The cold test was easy: get on bike, go for ride, eat cold stuff. Before setting out, I chopped up some apples, oranges and threw in a few sugar snap peas. I set out on one of my larger loops that takes about 4 hours. It was a relatively warm and bright day and my black frame bag was attracting sun and warming up. 

I stopped at one of my favorite spots on the loop—a huge moss-covered rock that flanks a fun little single track trail here in Victoria called <a href="https://www.trailforks.com/trails/electric-avenue-101420/" target="_blank">Electric Avenue</a>. My mind was blown—having fresh (and cool) fruit in the middle of the forest on my rock with the sun coming through the trees, was a small slice of paradise. I honestly couldn't think of any time in my life where I had ever had cool, fresh fruit mid-ride. It was delicious, and exactly what my body needed to get me home. 

With an added ice pack, fresh fruit will now be part of every ride I do. This I promise to myself. 

#### The Hot Test

Big Sky's main sell point is that the bags aid in cooking your meal quicker. I will be honest, I was a bit dubious about this claim. For the hot test, I opted to cook some instant noodles to see exactly how quick (and well) the bags rehydrated and cooked freeze-dried food. (Kindly disregard everything I mentioned about eating healthy and fresh up above ;) 

Doing this test meant I had to go for a much larger ride. I decided to do a 90 km loop to the top of <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/6714369137" target="_blank">Mount Quimper</a>. It was my first time to Mount Quimper and I knew by the time I hit the summit I'd be ready for a warm lunch. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/bigskybags/food-pouch-in-framebag.jpeg", "alt": "food pouch in framebag", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/bigskybags/pouch-in-surly-krampus.jpeg", "alt": "pouch in surly krampus", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/bigskybags/framebag.jpeg", "alt": "framebag in surly krampus", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

I packed fresh fruit and a small cube of butter in the smaller bag. Again, the fruit was super welcomed at a rest point I love overlooking <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/48%C2%B021'55.1%22N+123%C2%B036'23.9%22W/@48.365302,-123.6071812,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x548f0f31838485eb:0x6637cd27d28768bf!2sMatheson+Lake!3b1!8m2!3d48.3622144!4d-123.5993857!3m5!1s0x0:0x88b79de2201772ec!7e2!8m2!3d48.3653025!4d-123.6066338" target="_blank">Matheson Lake</a>. The butter is a bit of a joke between my buddy <a href="https://saltybeardbikepacking.com/" target="_blank">Saltybeard Bikepacking</a> and I. On our last bikepacking trip, we both agreed that to cook anything fresh, with any degree of enjoyment, one requires butter. Fats are absolutely paramount to any home-cooked meal worth it's salt. We had carried a small bottle of olive oil and learnt that high quality olive oil doesn't come from small bottles in small town grocery stores. The cube of butter would be a nice way to add some fats to my noodles, and test how well butter travels in the bags. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/bigskybags/food-pouch-with-jetboil.jpeg", "alt": "food pouch with jetboil", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/bigskybags/packaging.jpeg", "alt": "big sky food pouch packaging", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/bigskybags/butter-to-go.jpeg", "alt": "butter to go", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/bigskybags/mount-quimper-view.jpeg", "alt": "mount quimper view", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

The warm bag worked way better than I expected. I boiled some filtered puddle water (really) in <a href="/gear/camping-gear/jetboil-flash">Jetboil</a> and added the butter (which kept fantastically in the cool bag). The bag did exactly as advertised: it stood up perfectly, and within 7 minutes I had perfectly cooked instant noodles. It's been ages since I cooked instant noodles at home, but it feels like they cooked as fast if not faster than on a stove top. 

The noodles were warm and buttery and really hit the spot. A perfect reward for a hard climb to Mount Quimper summit. Next time, I will probably have my noodles in the smaller bag, and the cold items in the larger bag. The big is quite large and as they say, fits two meals. I ended up rolling it down in order to eat properly. Also, next time I will be bringing more fresh items—because I can. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/bigskybags/jetboil-boiling.jpeg", "alt": "jetboil boiling", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/bigskybags/noodles-in-pouch.jpeg", "alt": "noodles in pouch", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/bigskybags/oh-ya-instant-noodles.jpeg", "alt": "oh ya instant noodles", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/bigskybags/food-pouch-on-cliff.jpeg", "alt": "food pouch on cliff", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### DIY Thermal Bags?

Doing research for this review, I came to realize that the backpacking community has been on the idea of thermal bags for a long while. You can find a bunch of different DIY options out there. I mentioned this to my friend <a href="https://www.instagram.com/michelephotodesign/" target="_blank">Michèle</a> who told me how she made her own. She found a reflective, windscreen cover from a dollar store, cut it into a pocket and sewed it together with a bit of velcro. I can't really vouch for the quality of her DIY as compared to the Big Sky bags, but it does seem like a viable alternative for those on the cheap. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/bigskybags/diy-freezer-bag.jpeg", "alt": "diy freezer bag", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/bigskybags/diy-with-bar.jpeg", "alt": "diy with bar", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Wrap It Up

That said, the Big Sky Insulite pouches do feel like a quality product that are designed to last. They also seem moderately priced, and more than fair for the value they bring. 

In hindsight, I feel a bit silly having never tried an Insulite (or competing) bag before on my bike trips. Now that I know, I know. I will be forever indebted to Big Sky for introducing me to the idea, and I will be absolutely adding these bags to my bikepacking setup for the foreseeable future. Of course, I will also keep bringing my 🥑. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/bigskybags/food-pouch-in-woods.jpeg", "alt": "food pouch in woods", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

Temperature controlled bags are such a simple idea that changed how we think about food while bikepacking.

Big Sky Insulite Food Pouch Review: Eat Fresh While Bikepacking

Since 2005, <a href="https://bigskyinternational.com/" target="_blank">Big Sky International</a> has been creating award-winning ultralight gear. They started with ultralight tents and have recently been diversifying their lineup. They sent us two <a href="https://bigskyinternational.com/products/big-sky-insulite-insulated-food-pouch-freezer-bag-cooking-cozy?variant=39581236953134" target="_blank">food pouches</a> intended to keep food hot (and cold) while on an adventure. Such a simple idea, and yet—strangely enough—one we had never before considered for bikepacking.

My mountain bike life started in the mid-90s in Northern Ontario. I started out riding a rigid Trek 930 STX because well, that's all that really existed at the time. I loved that bike. I rode the hell out of it while racing my local trails and packing to go camping and fishing with friends. Full suspension was in its infancy—something we saw in Mountain Bike Action magazine and was intended for downhillers. In my room, I hung posters of the <a href="https://www.cool386.com/trek/trek.htm" target="_blank">Trek Y-Frame</a> and the <a href="https://www.pinkbike.com/news/now-that-was-a-bike-1995-gt-lts.html" target="_blank">GT LTS</a> but never had the chance to see or ride one in real life. In 1997, I moved to Toronto to go to school and I sadly fell out of the mtb scene for a very long time. 

Fast forward 25 years, I'm 43 years old, my little family moves to British Columbia and I'm severely underbiked. I decided the best bike to hit all the local terrain would be a rigid mtb. I wanted something versatile enough to let me ride singletrack but also join friends on gravel rides and bikepacking trips. However, the terrain here is a touch more technical and chunky than the flowy tracks of my childhood. After about 40km of vibrating chonk, I can really feel numbness in my wrists, hands and arms. Lately, I've been asking myself “am I old?” “should I at least go hardtail with some suspension up front?”. 

I was super excited to hear about Passchier and their handlebars. Maybe this is exactly what I was looking for. The idea seemed so simple to me—a naturally flexible but strong material used on one of the most rigid and jarring parts of the bike. Admittedly, Passchier's bars aren't actually designed for the type of riding I do daily but I couldn't resist trying them out. According to the team they are targeted at riders that are looking for comfort - tourers, commuters and elderly riders *ahem*. 

#### Company &amp; Product

Passchier (pronounced “pah-sheer”) was started by two friends, Dirk Passchier and Mike Baddeley. Dirk is a craftsman that started making bamboo kayak paddles in the late 70s. His paddles attracted some prominent figures in the New Zealand kayaking world. 40 years later, Dirk meets Mike, an entrepreneur and consultant focused on product development and strategy who brings his love of cycling into the mix. Together Mike and Dirk form Passchier and focus on handlebars that are designed to let riders enjoy the journey. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/passchier/passchier-card.jpeg", "alt": "passchier card", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/passchier/passchier-card-trails.jpeg", "alt": "passchier card trails", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/passchier/passchier-card-warranty.jpeg", "alt": "passchier card warranty", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

Today, Passchier has <a href="https://www.passchier.co.nz/product-category/bamboo-handlebars/" target="_blank">two products in the market</a>, the <a href="https://bit.ly/3gM4ECE" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">Gump 760</a> and 650 each with a comfy 22 degree sweep. Named after Forest Gump who “ran and ran”, using these bars will allow you to “ride and ride”. The bars have been getting some amazing press recently and featured in the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_W1BC9F7194" target="_blank">Path Less Pedaled</a> and <a href="https://bikepacking.com/index/comfort-mtb-handlebars/" target="_blank">Bikepacking.com</a>. Even more impressively, Passchier has been recognized with the prestigious <a href="https://www.core77.com/posts/110124/More-Comfortable-Handlebars-Made-from-Shock-Absorbing-Bamboo" target="_blank">Core 77</a> design award for their efforts and it's not hard to see why. 

#### Style For Miles &amp; Miles

The first thing I noticed about the bars is how beautiful they are. They are reminiscent of a classic car. Specifically, the wood steering wheels that sports cars donned before synthetic materials from a time when experience and quality trumped profiteering. The bars somehow feel warm to the touch. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/passchier/carbon-shim.jpeg", "alt": "carbon shim", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/passchier/passchier-logo.jpeg", "alt": "passchier logo", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/passchier/bar-end.jpeg", "alt": "bar end", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

The wood is contrasted by a gorgeous piece of carbon wrapped around them to act as a shim to prevent damage to the wood from the stem. It was almost a shame to cover the shim and well-designed Passchier logo with my gonky, factory stem. 

Once installed, the overall look of the bars stunned me. The entire front-end looked completely different. My cockpit was brighter and somehow gleaming. My old Salsa bars looked old and tired compared to these beauties. If you are not into the wood finish, Passchier also has a range of colors for you to choose from. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/passchier/shim-in-stem.jpeg", "alt": "shim in stem", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### But how strong is strong?!

In the cycling world, natural materials still seem to be on the fringe and considered boutique items. Many of us, of course, have seen the <a href="https://www.bicycling.com/repair/a20005683/do-it-yourself/" target="_blank">DIY bamboo frame projects</a> all reporting amazing successes. The closest I've found to any company looking at proper bamboo production is an amazing effort from <a href="https://booomers.com/" target="_blank">Booomers Bikes</a> in Ghana. 

It's ok to be a bit dubious about wood replacing steel or alloy in the one part of the bike that keeps your face from the dirt. However, according to <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/bamboo-as-a-replacement-to-steel" target="_blank">Interesting Engineering</a>, bamboo is stronger than steel. At a molecular level, bamboo is more tightly packed than steel and has a tensile strength of 28,000 pounds per square inch vs. steel's measly 23,000 pounds. Tensile literally means the materials resistance to breaking or splitting under pressure. 

Passchier builds on this natural strength by using sourced, engineered bamboo. They take 11 3mm sheets of the engineered bamboo and glue them together. They are then shaped in a press and CNC-ed into the final form. Once done, a laminate layer adds even more strength to prevent catastrophic failure. That's strong. Passchier has done extensive <a href="https://www.passchier.co.nz/strength/" target="_blank">research on the strength</a> and durability of their bars. They have been tested to an <a href="https://passchier.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ISO_standards_excerpt.pdf" target="_blank">ISO standard</a> that covers touring and commuting standards. 

#### Everything-Friendly Production

How bikes and components are manufactured should be important to all cyclists. In a past life, I used to coach companies into doing exactly what Passchier does and encourage renewable and natural resources in production. In those conversations, bamboo kept coming up for good reason—it's list of environmental and manufacturing friendly properties is exhaustive. 

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Bamboo is not a tree, it's actually a grass and requires next to zero fertilization and pesticides. 

Bamboo holds the <a href="https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/fastest-growing-plant/" target="_blank">guinness world record</a> for the fastest growing plant on earth. Some species can grow up to a meter a day. 

Bamboo self-regenerates from its roots and can grow almost anywhere and pretty much infinitely. 

Bamboo releases more oxygen than many other plants (and traps carbon as a result). 

The entire plant can be used for a variety of purposes ranging from construction to deodorants and medicines. 

It is almost a wonder how the material has been overlooked by the cycling world. Until now… 

#### The Test

Passchier is clear that the Gumps are ISO tested for easy trails, tours, jaunts around town, and daily commutes. The leaflet that accompanies the bars mentions they are not intended for Grade 4 trails and up. I had to look this one up and found that in New Zealand a Grade 4 trail <a href="https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/things-to-do/mountain-biking/track-grades/" target="_blank">is described</a> as: 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/passchier/close-up.jpeg", "alt": "close up", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/passchier/bars-on-krampus.jpeg", "alt": "bars on krampus", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/passchier/cockpit-zoom-out.jpeg", "alt": "cockpit-zoom-out.jpeg", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

“A mixture of long, steep climbs, narrow track, poor traction and obstacles that are difficult to avoid or jump over. Generally exposed at the track's outside edge. Most riders will find some sections easier to walk.” 

I knew taking the Gumps on my local loop would be pushing it a bit. My loop hits every terrain our little island has to offer—doubletrack, singletrack, flowy to technical. I have done my loop 100s of times and know every single rock, root and bump. If the Gumps were to make a difference I would for sure know where and what to look out for. 

The difference from my Salsa alloy bars was instantly noticeable. I could feel the give and flex in every pedal stroke. This initial feel made me wonder about how much shock my arms must take with the alloy bars. 

The 22 degree sweep was new to me. I am very used to my 11 degree risers bars but again I quickly got used to the sweep and rather enjoyed it. My wrists felt like they were at a much more natural angle and my elbows were tucked in. I felt faster. Zoom. 

For the first two rides, on the singletrack, I found myself slowing down and being a touch more cautious while cornering. The little bit of flex in bars while turning sent a little caution signal to my brain and I instinctively slowed down. This didn't last long and I was cornering as hard as usual in no time. 

> With the Passchier Gumps the vibration wasn't minimized—it was totally gone. And I mean 100% gone.

Where I did enjoy the flex, surprisingly, was on out-of-saddle climbs. It's tough to describe but the elasticity felt like I could move the bike side to side in a way that felt way more natural and climbing felt easier. 

But there is one hill that unlocked the whole experience for me. A quick little blast down a doubletrack that takes me out of the forest and into town at the end of each ride. The track is about 1km long with a 40m drop in elevation. It does however have some decent sized gravel and I've always taken it slower than I wanted as the bar vibration was pretty severe. With the Passchier Gumps the vibration wasn't minimized—it was totally gone. And I mean 100% gone. The feeling was absolutely thrilling and I flew down the hill. Woot. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/passchier/krampus-on-rock.jpeg", "alt": "krampus on rock", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

#### Ride on...

Passchier mentions that the bars will change the way you ride and I agree with this to a certain extent. There is a small adjustment period but this seems moot for what you get in return—a set of handlebars that are as comfortable as they are beautiful. 

Back to my challenge of being old and looking for some comfort, they did that in spades. The bars are obviously not a substitute for suspension but they are a viable option for anyone looking to reduce handlebar vibration for whatever reason. 

The company has also told me that they are also developing a riser bar in the near future which I will be very interested in when it hits the market. 

I can honestly say, I didn't expect to fall in love with them, but here we are. 

Through the process of testing the Gumps and writing this review I came to the conclusion that natural materials have a perception challenge—not a technical one. We as consumers need to adjust where we put our money and show the manufacturers that we care about ideas like sustainability and responsible sourcing. That will not happen overnight, and until it does, companies like Passchier will be filling a much appreciated gap. 

Get them <a href="https://bit.ly/3gM4ECE" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">here</a>

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/passchier/mike-dirk.jpeg", "alt": "Mike and Dirk", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

Passchier's Gump bars have been getting a lot of buzz lately and we were lucky to try out a pair on our local trails.

Passchier Gump 760 Handlebar Review

<a href="https://bit.ly/3W5IADx" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">Passchier</a> is a manufacturer of award-winning bamboo handlebars from New Zealand. Bamboo is a versatile and eco-friendly material with natural shock-absorbing and flex properties. It's usage for handlebars almost seems like a no-brainer. Passchier's bars have been getting a lot of buzz lately and we were lucky to try out a pair on our local trails.

If there's a place and time on earth that begs for waterproof socks, it's Vancouver Island in the winter. The average rainfall of the south island is almost 4 inches per month. The wet is inescapable while biking in the winter months here. The moss—which literally covers everything—holds the water, and from November to March it feels like you are biking through a wet sponge. 

I have mentioned many times on this site that my family and I moved here so I could cycle year round. However naive of me, I wasn't expecting the amount of water (and mud) that winter brings, and it took me a long while to adjust. At first I resisted; because, I suppose, my rational mind would not accept being covered in mud from head to toe after a 40km ride? After two years, my attitude towards cycling in the elements on this island has changed 180 degrees—I now find it quite liberating to be covered in earth juices. 

Well, for the most part. The one thing I have never gotten used to was having my feet soaked completely through. Once your feet get wet, you're finished. They will never dry out, the cold gets into your soul and the darkness creeps in from the sidelines. We have all been there. I have finished enough drenched rides screaming at myself to finally do something about it. 

#### Socks vs. Overshoe Booties

My first attempt to dry my feet out was a pair of overshoe booties from an unnamed brand. Like all new gear, there was once again an adjustment period. It turns out that booties are harder to get used to than I expected. Simply getting your feet into them and over your shoes requires the usage of many four-letter words. 

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Once I managed to get them on and get out riding, the boots still let in water from the top. There was no silicone bead or anything. They acted like funnels into my shoes which quickly filled with water. They were expensive, bulky as hell in the gear drawer, and forget about adjusting any boa dials with them on. There had to be a better way. 

After one particularly soppy ride, Instagram's advertising algorithm had me pegged and served up an ad for all-weather waterproof socks from Sealskinz in the UK. Well, I thought, I have to wear socks anyway, they might as well be waterproof. Let's give them a go. Buy Now. 

#### Fit &amp; Feel

I honestly didn't know what to expect and was mildly surprised when the socks showed up a couple weeks later. My immediate impression likened them to scuba gear rather than socks. They almost felt neoprene to the touch. However, when I put them on I was a little taken aback at how comfy they were. The socks stretched like a normal pair of socks, which I had heard is an issue with some other brands of waterproof goretex socks. 

The socks are made up of three layers (more on this in a bit) which adds to a bit of bulk. I was worried about the socks fitting my super narrow <a href="https://www.trekbikes.com/ca/en_CA/bike-clothing/cycling-shoes/mountain-bike-shoes/bontrager-evoke-mountain-bike-shoe/p/34129/" target="_blank">Bontrager shoes</a>. But I easily got my shoes on and the thickness of the socks didn't seem to be an issue at all. Rolled up, however, they are quite large, which may take up room in a bag and could be a concern for any space-obsessed bikepacker. 

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Overall, the socks felt like a quality product and I couldn't wait to get out and test them in the rainforest on my beloved local loop. 

#### Materials &amp; Construction

As I mentioned above, the socks are constructed in three layers: a lush Merino wool inner layer, a waterproof membrane and a durable outer fabric. 

The inner layer of Merino wool keeps things comfy while acting as insulation. Merino is a natural alternative to many of the synthetic high-performance materials that plague the cycling industry. We had a great chat with some friends on Merino in cycling <link href="/stories/makers/the-spandex-panda-collection"/>here if you're interested. The key is that Merino is a material with natural temperature balancing and moisture-wicking properties (Merino fibers can absorb up to one third of its own weight in moisture without feeling wet to the touch), and will keep your feet warm (or cool) and dry when you need it. 

Sealskinz markets the waterproof membrane in it's sock as “hydrophilic”. I had to look that one up. Hydrophilic plainly means that it is a material that interacts with water in some way. In this case, it's safe to assume that it can pass (and keep out) water at a molecular level. Apparently the water molecules are driven out of the membrane because of the higher temperature and humidity inside the sock. What is amazing about the membrane is that it also allows for great breathability 

It's simple really: the Merino feels nice and cozy while wicking the sweat off your feet, which then passes internal moisture to the membrane, which “hydrophilicly” passes the water out of the sock where it dries. For those of you into numbers, the membrane has a minimum W.V.P (Water Vapor Permeability index) of 65% and has been tested to withstand a column of water (hydrostatic head) >10,000mm. So, there. 

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To make sure it's all wrapped up, nice and snug, Sealskinz has added something they call Hydrostop™. The Hydrostop™ is a non-silicone (silicone-like?) band around the top of the inner sock that prevents water from entering the cuff of the sock. Take that, booties. 

#### Time to Ride

To test out the Sealskinz, I went for a ride on <a href="https://ridewithgps.com/trips/78593375" target="_blank">my favorite loop</a> here in Victoria. A 40k rip through every type of surface you could imagine from tarmac, to gravel, to singletrack in the wet, wet forest. I had the idea to hit a local puddle that is notorious to cyclists in the winter at a park called <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/Ax37947apTpo4tih6" target="_blank">Panama Flats</a>. Panama Flats is a marsh that runs alongside the Colquitz River, an important fish habitat. In the winter months, the river regularly floods and the flats act as a flood plain. This flood plain happens to cover a few hundred meters of trail with about 1-1.5 feet of water. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/sealskinz/panama-flats-puddle.jpeg", "alt": "panama flats puddle", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/sealskinz/panama-flats-flood-plain.jpeg", "alt": "panama flats flood plain", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/sealskinz/panama-flats-bike.jpeg", "alt": "panama flats bike", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

Not only was I going to ride the puddle, I planned on stopping and fully emerging my feet and shoes into it. The puddle is early in my ride so if the socks didn't work I'd have a miserable 30k home. 

#### The Result

Standing in a massive puddle at 6 degrees celsius in the rain will definitely get you a few odd looks. No surprise there. However, having your feet fully emerged in close-to-freezing water with waterproof socks plays a massive trick on your mind. You see your feet in the water, you feel the cold temperature and your brain ends up filling the gap with the thought “my feet are wet”. It's a very strange sensation that makes you ask the question: what is the difference between wet and cold? After a few minutes I was able to tell that my feet were in fact dry, and I was more afraid to wreck my new shoes than anything. Amazing. 

I hopped back on the bike and took off with freezing cold feet and drenched shoes. After about 10 minutes I could already feel my feet warming up. I know now that the Merino was keeping in the warmth, wicking away sweat and thus heating up my feetsies. After 20 mins, I felt like I had just left the house—my feet were totally toasty and dry. I was truly blown away. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "fullbleed","image": {"src": "/products/sealskinz/feet-in-water.jpeg", "alt": "feet in water", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

No matter how moist the forest got or how many puddles I splashed through, my feet wouldn't get wet or even that cold, which in turn lightened my mood and helped me hammer the trails. 

#### Zen and the Art of Sock Maintenance

When I got home, I experienced the harshest part of the socks. A bit of water had seeped into the cuff and made a moisture seal between my leg and the non-silicone/silicone bead. Taking off the socks was a bit like removing duct tape off a cat. I didn't know leg hair could be removed from a leg in such a way. A mistake I'll only make once. 

I threw the socks in a muddy heap much to my wife's distress and let them sit there while I took a shower. I then threw them in the washing machine and dryer before having the thought that maybe the membrane wasn't really meant for regular laundry. I thought I killed them on the first go. Alas, this is not an issue, Sealskinz can be washed (and dried) normally alongside the rest of your gear. Whew. 

However, you may need to flip them in and out once or twice to fully dry. They are waterproof afterall. 

#### Wrap Up

I have now been on a handful of rides with the socks and am totally sold. At $71 CAD the socks are not cheap. But they do come with a lifetime guarantee which seems incredible for an item that sees as much wear as a pair of socks. If these socks in fact last my lifetime, $71 bucks seems like a hell of a deal to me for dry, happy feet in the wet, cold, unforgiving world of winter cycling. Get them <a href="https://bit.ly/3Pr2bti" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">here</a>.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "inline","image": {"src": "/products/sealskinz/in-the-moss.jpeg", "alt": "in the moss", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"}}} />

If there's a place and time on earth that begs for waterproof socks, it's Vancouver Island in the winter.

Sealskinz Waterproof Bike Socks Review

<a href="https://bit.ly/3dwQL9W" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">Sealskinz</a> is a UK-based manufacturer of waterproof socks, gloves, overshoes and hats. They have been around for 25 years and are a leader in what they do. After a very well-timed Instagram advertisement hit our feed, we decided to take the plunge and hit the buy now button to find out exactly how well their <a href="https://bit.ly/3Pr2bti" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">all-weather, waterproof socks</a> would stand up to a rainy-season rainforest ride.

Sealskinz Waterproof Socks Review: Dry, Happy Feet

I was at Heathrow Airport when I picked up a bikepacking magazine for the first time and my brain exploded. The downward spiral of internet research eventually brought me to <a href="https://bikepacking.com" target="_blank">bikepacking.com</a> where I spent months reading about what seemed like a whole new type of cycling and drooling over the photos. The <a href="https://bikepacking.com/plog/four-days-bikepacking-wilsons-creek-and-lost-cove/" target="_blank">early articles</a> from Logan featuring his 2012 Surly Krampus really inspired me. 

At the same time, my family and I were living in Tokyo, and transitioning back to Canada. We ended up in British Columbia so “Daddy could bike all year long”. It was obvious pretty quickly that the “gravel” setup I was riding wasn't going to cut the mustard in BC. 

#### How I ended up 29+

I detest cycling genres and have a tough time communicating the type of riding I do. My favorite thing in the world is soloing through every surface I can - tarmac, single-track, double-track, gravel, whatever. The <a href="https://ntxtrails.com/what-is-n-1/" target="_blank">N+1 joke</a> has always kind of annoyed me as I have always dreamed of one rig to do it all. It was early 2020, and Surly had launched a new Krampus which triggered my memories of Logan's early posts. I got one. 

The Krampus is the first true plus-sized bike and ships with 29x3.0 <a href="https://surlybikes.com/parts/dirt_wizard" target="_blank">Dirt Wizard tires</a> that are intended to climb volcanoes (which they can do easily). The traction and cushion on the Dirt Wizards allowed me to adjust to my surroundings. I love my Krampus. It can do anything. But let's be real, it wasn't designed to be the fastest, snappiest rig on the market. After almost two years/6000km of riding, I started putting thought into how to speed the Krampus up. The easiest place to start shedding weight was the tires. 

#### Maxxis Ikon vs. Surly Dirt Wizard

The volume of the 29x3.0 Dirt Wizards allows you to run super low pressure which is cushy on rocky and rooty terrain. When other MTBers gawked at my rigid frame, I would joke that suspension was in the tires. The tight-knit center knobs keep you moving quickly while the huge outer knobs help provide confidence in cornering. Honestly, they are awesome tires but at 1210g they are a huge weight penalty. After a long day in the saddle, you start to feel every single gram. I knew finding something lighter with as much traction and comfort as the Dirt Wizards would be a challenge. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/maxxis-ikon/surly-dirt-wizard.jpeg", "alt": "Surly Dirt Wizard Close Up", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/maxxis-ikon/dirt-wiazrd-weight.jpeg", "alt": "Surly Dirt Wizard on Scale", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/maxxis-ikon/ikon-detail-off-wheel.jpeg", "alt": "Maxxis Ikon Hanging on Bike Stand", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/maxxis-ikon/ikon-on-scale.jpeg", "alt": "Maxxis Ikon on Scale", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

I was originally interested in the 2.8 <a href="https://teravail.com/products/coronado-tire?variant=39350969892915#/" target="_blank">Teravail Coronado's</a> until I learned that they weighed in at close to 1000g. My <a href="https://www.northparkbikeshop.com/" target="_blank">local shop</a> pointed me in the direction of the 2.6 Maxxis Ikons. After speaking to a few friends who swear by Maxxis (specifically the Ikons) I placed my order. 

The Ikons are just that - an icon. Maxxis released the Ikons in 2014 as a 27.5x2.3. Alongside the popular Rekons, the Ikons have a purpose-built cross-country tread pattern and became a kingpin in the industry. Since then, Maxxis has introduced a whole range of sizes and the introduction of the 2.6 has heralded the “death of 29+”.

<table>
 <tr>
 <th></th>
 <th>Maxxis Ikon</th>
 <th>Surly Dirt Wizard</th>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>Size Options</td>
 <td>2.0-2.6"</td>
 <td>2.6-3.0"</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>TPI</td>
 <td>60/120</td>
 <td>60</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>Bead</td>
 <td>Foldable</td>
 <td>Foldable</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>Weight(g)</td>
 <td>805g</td>
 <td>1390g</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>Max PSi</td>
 <td>40</td>
 <td>35</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>MSRP (usd)</td>
 <td>$65</td>
 <td>$90</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td>Color Options</td>
 <td>Black/Tan Wall</td>
 <td>Black</td>
 </tr>
</table>

#### Installing an Ikon

Getting the Ikons on my wheels was a breeze. The foldable bead was easy to pop on and get seated. When installing, make sure the arrow and directional tread are pointing towards the front of the bike. You probably want to consider a bit more sealant than usual. I dropped about 150ml of sealant in both tires before inflating. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/maxxis-ikon/ikon-rear-tread.jpeg", "alt": "Maxxis Ikon Tread", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/maxxis-ikon/ikon-front-tread.jpeg", "alt": "Maxxis Ikon Tread", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

> "The bike wanted to fly and I couldn't help but smile"
 
As soon as the Ikons were on, I went for a boot around my hood. I can't verify this, but I imagine the feeling is a lot like losing 10 pounds and putting on a pair of expensive jeans for the first time. With the new Maxxis Ikon weight, the bike wanted to fly and I couldn't help but smile. This may sound lame but the rotation of the yellow Maxxis logo looked rad. They somehow reminded me of the muscle cars of my youth. The Krampus was reborn and I couldn't wait to get it out on my local loop. 

#### A True Mixed-Surface Loop

Maxxis positions the Ikons as a true mixed-surface/cross-country tire with a high rolling speed and ready for anything. My local is a 40k loop that leaves from my house and covers all terrain that Victoria has to offer. 

##### On the Road

My route hits about 10-20km of tarmac to get to (and fro) the trails. This stretch was tedious with Dirt Wizards, especially on the way back when everything is feeling heavy. The distance on the Ikons ripped by and I barely noticed. It took about 10km to realize just how quickly my average road speed had increased. I was moving anywhere between 20-25km/h, a huge contrast to the Dirt Wizards that would maintain an avergae of 14-18km/h. Guess what? Dropping almost 2 pounds makes a noticeable difference. 

One small observation, the Ikons have less of a footprint and this makes it harder to “stand” at a stop. With my Dirt Wizards, I could almost stand the bike at a full stop. 

##### XC

The Ikons were purpose-built for cross-country and they no doubt shine on gravel roads and double track surfaces. At first, the challenge was mine - not the tires. The transition time to a thinner tire was a bit longer than expected. I found myself holding back and not fully opening up as I wasn't sure of the footing and traction the tires were capable of. Once my comfort leveled out, I noticed again, average speeds were much faster. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/maxxis-ikon/krampus-on-rock.jpeg", "alt": "Surly Krampus With Maxxis Ikons on Rock", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/maxxis-ikon/krampus-up-close.jpeg", "alt": "Surly Krampus With Maxxis Ikons Up Close", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/maxxis-ikon/krampus-side-view.jpeg", "alt": "Surly Krampus With Maxxis Ikons Side View", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

But wow, they are light. So light in fact that I could bunny hop and wheelie way easier than with the Dirt Wizards. I spent a good part of the trip with one wheel in the air. My only XC gripe about the Ikons was that they spun out quite fast in the mud. On our little island, serious mud is a reality most of the year and the lower tread meant a bit more slippage in the soup. 

##### Singletrack

The true test for the Ikons came in the singletrack. The singletrack here tends to be fairly technical, full of wet rocks and roots - which the Dirt Wizards made a quick job of. Nowhere does Maxxis advertise the Ikons as a singletrack-friendly tire, but I was delighted to find out that side slippage was comparable to the Dirt Wizards. Again, the challenge was me trusting the tires - not the tires themselves. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/maxxis-ikon/ikons-on-the-trail.jpeg", "alt": "Maxxis Ikons On The Trail", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/maxxis-ikon/ikon-tread-close-up.jpeg", "alt": "Maxxis Ikons Tread Close Up", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

The drop in weight dramatically changed how I climb on singletrack. With the 29+, I would throw the bike into the highest gear, sit back and pull myself up the rocks. Now with the Ikons, I am leaning in and attacking similar to what most full-suspension riders do - with the weight over my front tire. I love this. 

#### Verdict: Is 29+ dead?

There has been much debate around the death of 29+ tires and bikes. Bikepacking.com has sighted the <a href="https://bikepacking.com/bikes/surly-ecr-elegy/" target="_blank">discontinuation of Surly's ECR</a> as a signal that the 29+ platform is dying and published a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnKCb4Hbjzo" target="_blank">great video</a> on the topic. It's indisputable that the number of brands carrying plus-size options has dropped and that it remains a bit of a niche for bikepacking specifically. 

After spending a few weeks on Ikon 2.6s, I am pretty confident I will not be returning to 29+ tires and I am left wondering what the use case for 29+ is. Sure, I loved the clearance and the ability to roll over (and through) everything but the 2.6 Ikons have proved that you can still get all of the benefits of a 29+ in a much lighter and nimble tire. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/maxxis-ikon/ikons-from-cockpit.jpeg", "alt": "Maxxis Ikons From Cockpit", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},{"src": "/products/maxxis-ikon/surly-krampus-rear-tire.jpeg", "alt": "Surly Krampus With Maxxis Ikons on Rear", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/maxxis-ikon/surly-krampus-front-tire.jpeg", "alt": "Surly Krampus With Maxxis Ikons on Front", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

As for my beloved Krampus, it feels like a whole new bike with a fresher, younger attitude. I am now looking at ways to speed it up even more. Maybe slapping an oval ring on the front with a couple more teeth, lighter wheels, and/or a carbon fork. Stay tuned.

We swapped our 29+ Dirt Wizards for the more versatile Maxxis Ikons.

Maxxis Ikon 29x2.6 Review

In 2019, <a href="https://www.maxxis.com/" target="_blank">Maxxis</a> released an update of its massively popular <a href="https://www.maxxis.com/ca/tire/ikon/" target="_blank">Ikon</a> tire. The 2.6” EXO/TR update allowed for much lower pressure giving riders more traction and comfort on any cross-country terrain. We swapped our 29+ Dirt Wizards for the more versatile Maxxis Ikons.

Maxxis Ikon 29x2.6 Review: A True XC Tire

For the ride, we filled two new EXP Series Bags up with food and strapped them on to our cages—one Anything HD Cage (2015) and one original Anything Cage (2010), to understand how the newer version stood against the original. With the two cages hooked up to our front fork, we hit the (dirt) road. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/salsabags/salsa_bags_full.jpg", "alt": "Salsa Anything Cages on Surly Krampus fork", "width": "1200", "height" :"798"},{"src": "/products/salsabags/salsa_bags_under.jpg", "alt": "Salsa EXP bag hard bottom", "width": "1200", "height" :"798"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/salsabags/salsa_bags_fork.jpg", "alt": "Salsa Anything Cages on Surly Krampus fork", "width": "1200", "height" :"798"},]},] }} />

#### The Specs

Before we jump in, let's go over the specs of each of the products we used during our ride. We chose Salsa because they've been an innovative leader for bikepackers and gravel riders since the 1980s. Their contributions have been making headway for bikepacking cyclists to maximize the efficiency of travel. We heart them. Salsa, if you are reading this, please send us a Timberjack for review.

##### The all-new Anything EXP Bag (2021)
Designed from the ground up 
New rigid bottom allows bag to stand while loading 
Fits snugly into both HD and the standard cage 
Waterproof 
Keeps weight low to the ground 
Quick-release roll-top closure 
Easily accessible 

##### Anything Cage HD (2015)
Made of injection-molded nylon for impact resistance 
Sturdy make with fewer gaps than rack style 
Designed for “Heavy Duty” (HD) transport 
Carries bags, water bottles, and gear 
Includes 2 nylon straps 
Weighs 149g 
3kg/6.6 lb cargo weight limit 

##### Standard Anything Cage (2010)
Made of aluminum 
“Rack” style make 
Designed to hold bags or large water bottles 
Includes 2 nylon straps 
Weighs 98g 
3kg/6.6 lb cargo weight limit 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/salsabags/salsa_bags_standing.jpg", "alt": "Salsa EXP Bag Standing", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

There's a reason we chose Salsa for our trip. Every product is designed for accessibility, security and durability. Now, let's see how these cages stack up against each other on installation. 

#### Cage Installation (HD vs. Standard)

We were able to install the Standard Anything Cage as easily as any water bottle cage. It was super straightforward, held the EXP bag effortlessly, and was a perfect fit for our 2020 Surly Krampus—solid and secure. 

When attempting to install the HD cage, we discovered we couldn't attach it to the down tube of the Krampus even though Salsa says this is possible. The mounts are near the bottom bracket and the HD couldn't clear the cranks. Also, it turns out we didn't read the instructions properly and had a bit of a crisis. While cycling at 25km/hr the HD cage flew off the fork due to improper installation. Always read the instructions, people :) We had to find a bike shop at the last minute for longer hex bolts and washers to correct our mistake. Ooops. 

Also worth noting if you are riding a carbon frame, mounting the HD cage can cause wear. You may want to consider something in between the HD and your frame to protect your carbon from damage. For more on this, check out this article at <a href="https://cycle.hypertelia.com/salsa-anything-cage-hd-review-warning" target="_blank">hypertelia.com</a>. 

#### Packing, Packing and Re-packing...

The two new Salsa Anything EXP bags were able to carry 4 days of food for the trip: with 3.35L of space, it was the perfect size for storing just the right amount of food. We were able to fit everything we needed except our MSR bowl and GSI pour-over coffee filter due to the radius. Small boo, but all other nourishment needs were good to go. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/salsabags/salsa_bags_food.jpg", "alt": "Salsa EXP Bag Perfect for Food", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

The roll-top closure allowed for easy accessibility during the ride and we noticed the benefit of the new rigid bottom as soon as we started packing. The EXP stands at attention, ready for packing, which allows for easy storage at home or at the campsite. We were also able to use the loop from the roll-top to carabiner the bags together and hang them in a tree for nighttime bear safety. Also, they are fully waterproof—an essential for any serious bikepacker. 

#### Strapping the Bags in

As we strapped the bags in, we noticed the very long length of the nylon straps. They could have easily been 5 inches shorter and still had enough slack to tighten a fully loaded bag. However, it seems Salsa has updated the straps (to rubber!) on its latest release. 

As far as attaching the EXP bag to the cages, the experience was very different for each. The HD cage is designed for the strap to pass through the holes, so lining it up was super easy. Attaching the bag to the standard cage, however, was a total pain. We ended up strapping the bag to the mount itself; this worked fine but was not ideal. We also tried numerous ways of strapping the bag to the cage, but it never felt quite right. 

When the Salsa Anything Bags are full, the cages and bags work great, but when the bags are empty it's like pushing a wet noodle uphill—they are floppy and hard to keep in place, especially with massive amounts of excess strap interfering with cables and spokes. We also had to make sure the straps weren't tightening on our hydraulic brake cables during strapping, but this issue isn't unique to the Anything Cages. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/salsabags/salsa_bags_empty.jpg", "alt": "Empty Salsa EXP Bag", "width": "1600", "height" :"1067"},]},] }} />

All of that said, the straps did allow us to secure our flip-flops very nicely 👌 We didn't have to cram them into a seat bag this time since we were able to tie them up in the long strap. 

#### The Verdict

After our trip with both styles of Anything Cages, we know that the HD cage is worth a few extra bucks. Hands down. The <a href="https://salsacycles.com/components/category/bags_frame_packs/anything_cage" target="_blank">Standard Anything cage ($30 USD)</a> was a pain when strapping on bags, and apparently aluminum can be at risk of failure. The <a href="https://salsacycles.com/components/category/racks/anything_cage_hd" target="_blank">HD Anything cage ($35 USD)</a> is still lightweight, it is more efficient, and far easier to work with. It also looks pretty bad-ass. 

The newly designed <a href="https://salsacycles.com/components/category/bags_frame_packs/exp_series_anything_cage_bag" target="_blank">EXP bags</a> are worth every dime. They stand, have excellent grip, and are easy to access at any time. The durability and weatherproofing make this bag a must-have for any avid bikepacker.

We tested the Salsa Anything Cages (HD & standard) and the all-new EXP Bag to see how they would stand up to local terrain.

Salsa Anything Cages & EXP Bag Review

 During a 500 km bikepacking trip on Vancouver Island, we wanted to test the Salsa Anything Cages (HD &amp; standard) and the all-new EXP Bag to see how they would stand up to the terrain.

Enter the <a href="https://jetboil.johnsonoutdoors.com/stoves-systems/flash-cooking-system" target="_blank">Jetboil Flash Cooking System</a>. The ultimate minimal cooking system that fits all of our criteria and then some. Designed for backpackers, this compact stove of sorts is an excellent choice for cyclists as well. The Jetboil Flash comes with everything you need to enjoy delicious meals after a day of hammering the trails or road. 

The Jetboil Flash Cooking System is totally self-contained and packs in a stabilizer, a 4oz fuel canister, and a bottom cup that can be used as a bowl. Weighing in at 13.1 oz. this stove is light enough to bike with and comes with attached cookware, thereby reducing bulk. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/jetboilflash/jetboil_flash_breakdown.jpg", "alt": "Jetboil Flash breakdown", "width": "1200", "height" :"798"},]},] }} />

We tested the limits of the Jetboil Flash for ourselves on a 500 km bikepack trip on northern Vancouver Island, Canada. First things first, let's talk about the Jetboil fuel system. 

#### The Jetboil Flash Fuel System

The Jetboil Flash uses its own brand of fuel, a blend of propane and iso-butane called Jetpower. The company states Jetpower has been designed to negate the effects of cold weather, but you can also safely substitute fuel from Brunton, Gigapower, MSR, Primus, and Snowpeak. 

The Jetboil Flash is extremely fuel efficient, which means you can take less fuel with you, saving on weight and space. Because it is (up to) twice as efficient as conventional stoves, we ended up only needing two 4oz fuel canisters—1 Jetpower and 1 MSR IsoPro. We brewed coffee, cooked oatmeal, instant Japanese curry (yum) and pasta with it everyday for 9 days, and had fuel left over when we returned home. We noticed very little difference between the branded Jetpower and the MSR fuel in terms of performance. 

#### Bring on the Coffee

It's no secret that cyclists love their coffee. A shot of caffeine gets the legs and mind moving. It promotes fat burning and can clear up any feelings of pain and fatigue. What an elixir! If you love brewing your own coffee on your bike trips, the Jetboil Flash is an absolute must. The Jetboil Flash is highly skilled at one thing—boiling water. In fact, it does it faster than most kettles we have used: 1 liter of water from standing to rolling boil in under 2 minutes. On our trip, we packed a half pound of coffee with a GSI pour over filter. Being able to hop off the bike, boil water close to instantly and have a fresh cup quickly was a godsend. 

#### What Can The Jetboil Flash Make?

Because the Jetboil can boil water so fast, it makes it ideal for freeze-dried backpacking meals and anything that only requires hot water. But what we wanted to know was could the Jetboil Flash cook, or was it strictly for boiling? After a few hundred kilometers, we were craving something that didn't taste like it came from a machine. We wanted comfort food to the fullest— pasta! 

We learned that the Jetboil is not a one-trick pony. While it took some practice, getting the Jetboil to simmer is possible. To cook our pasta, we brought a half full Jetboil of water to a full boil. We then added our pasta and turned the burner down as low as possible. It took us a few times to find that simmer point; but if you nail this, you can, in theory, cook pretty much anything that requires simmering. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/jetboilflash/jetboil_flash_pasta.jpg", "alt": "Jetboil Flash pasta", "width": "1200", "height" :"798"},{"src": "/products/jetboilflash/jetboil_flash_pasta_strainer.jpg", "alt": "Jetboil Flash pasta strainer", "width": "1200", "height" :"798"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/jetboilflash/jetboil_flash_meal.jpg", "alt": "Jetboil Flash dinner time", "width": "1200", "height" :"798"},]},] }} />

We really appreciate all the Jetboil Flash has to offer, and it has definitely changed the way we eat on the road. 


#### Pros

Boil 1 liter of water in just over 2 minutes (!!!) 
Spout and drainage top for easy pouring 
Boil indicator shows when water is ready 
Easy to clean with a regular scrub pad 
Quick and simple storage 


#### Cons

Can be loud in a quiet campground 
Lighting in windy weather can be tough 
Push-button ignitor stopped working—be sure to bring a lighter just in case 
Our wet fuel canister began to rust inside the Jetboil when we packed it away between trips 
Simmering requires some finesse 


Any con we encountered during our trip was easily corrected with simple solutions like carrying a lighter. As far as the noise, since the Jetboil Flash boils water in minutes, it was hardly a con at all. Overall, as long as you keep it clean, dry, and have a lighter handy, you're ready for top chef bikepacking. 

#### The Verdict

The pros outweigh the cons by a long shot. We thoroughly enjoyed using the Jetboil Flash and were extremely impressed with the versatility it provided. The Jetboil Flash is fast, durable, and—this may sound lame, but it's fun! It might not be as small as a foldable MSR, but you also don't need to wait 5 minutes to boil water for that speedy (and much needed) cup of joe on the road.

We tested the limits of the Jetboil Flash for ourselves on a 500 km bikepack trip on northern Vancouver Island, Canada.

Jetboil Flash Bikepacking & Camping Stove Review

Are you looking for the ultimate cooking system for your biking excursions? We have been on the hunt for the perfect cooking set-up for bikepacking: something that is light, efficient, and fits in a frame bag. Oh, we also don't want to carry a pot.

In the 90s, cycling computers were a no-frills, easy-to-use tool. A black on white LCD display, which told us how far we rode, how fast we were going, and not much else. Many modern cycling computers try to compete with, or keep up with smartphones, connecting a rider to what is happening in the world outside their ride. For some, this is great; for others, all the pops-ups and notifications are a distraction to pedalling.

When you first try the <a href="https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/p/698436" target="_blank">Garmin Edge 130</a>, you may be transported back to the 90s. Free from over-complicated, hard to use devices, you may enjoy the simplicity—now available without the mess of wires and lining up magnets during set-up (thank you GPS). 

#### A Simple Interface

Kept in navigation mode during a ride, this device tells you just enough, thanks to the straightforward Garmin user interface. When you need to access different functions, there are simple buttons and gestures to get you around the operating system. A breeze to figure out, it will only take about a minute to learn how it all works.

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/garmin130/garmin_130_map_interface.jpg", "alt": "Garmin Edge 130 map interface", "width": "1200", "height" :"721"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/garmin130/garmin_130_stat_interface.jpg", "alt": "Garmin Edge 130 stat screen", "width": "1200", "height" :"721"},]},] }} />

As you would expect for a device at this price point and size, there's no touch screen, but the interface is intuitive, so you don't really miss it 

By default the Edge 130 boasts 10 customizable views, each with a maximum of 4 data fields that you can flip between during a ride. You get to set which stats you want to see and when, depending on the type of rider you are. Some won't use this at all, but if you like to tweak and customize, this is a godsend. 

#### Physical Design

Cyclists spend so much time, effort and money lightening their bikes and gear, slapping on a heavy bracket with a bulky, heavy unit seems counterproductive. This is the key reason we love the Garmin Edge 130: it is tiny, light, and unobtrusive. At just 40 x 61 x 17mm, and 33 grams, it takes up hardly any space and adds almost no weight. 

<Gallery galleryData={{"type": "wide","rows": [{"images": [{"src": "/products/garmin130/garmin_130_design_under.jpg", "alt": "Garmin Edge 130 mount", "width": "1200", "height" :"721"},]},{"images": [{"src": "/products/garmin130/garmin_130_design_side.jpg", "alt": "Garmin Edge 130 side view", "width": "1200", "height" :"721"},{"src": "/products/garmin130/garmin_130_design_bars.jpg", "alt": "Garmin Edge 130 on handlebars", "width": "1200", "height" :"721"},]},] }} />

The stripped-down, simplified interface means a lot less processing power and hardware, which means it doesn't have to be huge. It is, however, both waterproof and well-designed. It may be simple, but it looks good, and we can all admit that matters.

#### Features

Garmin have been making top of the line navigation and GPS tools for a long time, and it shows. This little bike computer does exactly what it needs to, with the kind of economy of features that we love. The Garmin Edge 130 gives you all you need on the connectivity front: the bluetooth lets you easily connect to your smartphone, which in turn can relay any important notifications if you need them.

If you like to build your own routes in external services like Komoot or Ride with GPS, you can easily import your GPX data into the 130 through Garmin Connect. Simply export from your favorite route service, upload to Garmin Connect and sync to the device. This ease has saved our butts numerous times on a few bikepacking trips over the past 6 months.

While in navigation mode you don't get things like landmark information or any deep mapping information, like where to stop for groceries. Some might see the lack of mapping data as a drawback, but we have always preferred exploring. 

The Garmin Edge 130 will give you all the information you need or want, it just won't slap you in the face with it.

#### Battery Life

Battery life claims are a lot like gas mileage: the figure that's advertised is rarely what you get. That's been our experience here. The Garmin Edge 130 marketing materials boast of a remarkable 15 hours of battery life, but we have maxed out at 9 or 10. The 15 hours may be a lab based number under optimal conditions and minimum use. But that's not really what you get in the real world.

But, if you ride with a spare power bank (as most of us do), it's no big deal. A trick is to keep the unit unpaired from your phone to push the battery life as far as it will go. This does limit some features, but when you are focused on riding, you won't notice. Roadies who are worried about weight will love the size of the unit. Even with a spare battery, it's still lighter than most of the oversized (and complicated) models.

#### Final Verdict

If you love high tech gadgets with all the features (and then some), this is not the bike computer for you. If, however, you just want to get back to all the reasons you love cycling and have all the basic navigation and ride data you need, you will love it. This unit is simple, but it does everything you need without “plugging” you in to yet another device.

A big part of why we ride is to get out and get away from all the distractions of modern life, and the Edge 130 makes that possible, without sacrificing the good stuff. It's small, it's light, and even technophobes can figure it out fast. Which also lets you spend more time on the road and less time studying the manual.

The Garmin Edge 130 is sold at a great price point while still delivering all the quality you would expect from a Garmin. All things considered, this is one of our favourite modern bike computers, because it is so much like it was in the good old days.

We have been using the Garmin Edge 130 for over a year now and had some thoughts.

Garmin Edge 130 Review

Advances in technology mean gadgets are always getting better, faster, and ideally more convenient. From CDs and DVDs to streaming, and flip phones to smartphones, most changes have been welcomed. But there are some things—like cycling computers—that may have been better before, when life was simple, and so were our accessories.

Garmin Edge 130 Review: Small, Light, And Wonderfully Simple

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